Fire crews are optimistic they have gained the upper hand over a huge blaze that has been burning on Great Barrier Island throughout the week.

New fires are burning on Great Barrier Island as firefighters work to strengthen containment lines with controlled vegetation burnoffs.

Firefighters continue to work on the perimeter of the Great Barrier Island fire which flared up overnight but stayed within containment lines.

A huge bush fire that has raged across Great Barrier Island in the Hauraki Gulf for more than a day is under control tonight.

About 40 rural volunteer firefighters are battling a blaze threatening homes and businesses on Great Barrier Island, off the tip of the Coromandel Peninsula.

Firefighters have extinguished a large vegetation fire on Great Barrier Island overnight.

Sniffer dogs were used to check predator-free islands off Northland's coast after a boat broke a mooring and drifted onto rocks, sparking a conservation scare.

Vets at the Auckland Zoo operated on a Kaka that was found shot on the Great Barrier Island. A metal pellet that was lodged in the wing was removed however the bird will not be able to fly again. Photos by Sarah Ivey

Great Barrier is regenerating after its destructive past, finds Cliff Taylor.

The island lives up to its reputation as one of the Gulf's most magical spots, finds Catherine Smith.

Pioneer brothers created a memorial to a wrecked ship, says Raewyn Court.

Nathan Boulter faces a raft of charges including abducting and causing grievous bodily harm to ex-girlfriend.

Kirsten Warner is captivated by the beauty and mystery of Great Barrier Island.

A mini-break to Great Barrier Island can combine luxury, solitude and adventure - as well as breathtaking scenery.

A sailor trying to save his yacht from a potential tsunami has run aground off Great Barrier Island.