Fire crews rush to Whatawhata Rd house fire in Hamilton

Smoke at the scene of the Whatawhata Rd house fire in Hamilton.

Several fire crews have been sent to a Whatawhata Rd house fire in Hamilton.

It's unclear if anyone is inside the small home which sits in between a Z petrol station and block of shops at Dinsdale.

Firefighters can be heard smashing their way inside.

Witnesses say the home is occupied by one woman.

Smoke is drifting west across the city.

The westbound lane of SH23 - Whatawhata Rd - is closed. The eastbound lane is open.

An ambulance has just arrived. At least four appliances and police are also at the fire.

Firefighters can be seen walking in and out of the house.

More to come.

Witnesses said firefighters could be heard smashing their way into the house.