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Drones, helicopters and more than 70 firefighters continue to fight the fire on Matakana Island.
The fire first broke out on the island side of Panepane Point on December 13.
Firefighters spent the better part of a week fighting the fire and putting out the hot spots.
It flared up again on Saturday, causing plumes of smoke to rise into the air and drift over Tauranga.
Chief Rural Fire Officer Steve Webb says the fire, which is burning a forest block, increased from 19 hectares to about 40 hectares after it broke out.
Webb says the fuel source makes it difficult to control.
“What we have is a problem where a large amount of fuel has not been burned and burned properly, and it has not been burned properly.
“So it’s still smoking and smoking, so it gets worse in the heat of the day.”
The fire on Saturday afternoon. Photo: Glenda Maplesden.
In a statement released today, Fire and Emergency New Zealand says 75 firefighters continue to fight a fire on Matakana Island.
“The fire started on December 13.
“Firefighters have been managing hot spots that have been identified by drones.
“Although there is little smoke, the fire continues to burn deep underground.
“Firefighters are making good progress and are expected to be on the scene for at least the next few days.
“We are working closely with the local Iwi on the island.”
Fire and Emergency says they are aware of the smoke drifting into the city of Tauranga and told residents to stay indoors and close their windows if they were affected.
Those needing medical advice should contact Healthline.
