Taupo scrub fire 'deliberate'
Twenty-five Fire crews and a helicopter with a monsoon bucket are battling a large scrub fire near Taupo.
Rural fire officer Phil Parker says five hectares of scrub and bush near the Spa Thermal Park has been engulfed in flames.
He says fire was also threatening near by properties in the area.
"Properties in the area are no longer at risk at the moment, we've stationed crews around the buildings to protect them from fire spots."
Scott Breakin of the Spa hotel Taupo says the fire came relatively close to his property.
"The fire is still large at the moment but fire crews have assured us that we are no longer at risk." Mr Breakin says.
Phil Parker says it appears the fire was deliberately lit.