A large bush fire is blazing in Kawerau's Monika Lanham Reserve.
Kawerau fire fighters, with help from a helicopter, have been battling the blaze since it was first noticed just before 2pm.
Bursts of orange flame and plumes of smoke could be seen from most parts of the mill town according to residents.
Janette McLeown posted on the Whakatane News Facebook page, fire fighters were working hard to contain the fire due to the unforgiving slope it was burning on.
Valerie Dunbar said the firemen had been clambering up and down the hill. She also said strong winds had not helped.