Residents are on standby to be evacuated, as a fire threatens properties on Kaipara's Pouto Peninsula.

Firefighters have been battling the pine forest blaze since Monday night, near Kellys Bay.

About 205 hectares have been burnt.
 
The Department of Conservation's Sue Reed-Thomas says winds are expected to increase today, and change direction.

"It makes it more dangerous for the firefighters, as well as potentially send the fire towards the Kelly's Bay residential community and towards the odd house around Ototuna Road in particular."