Crews are battling multiple fires near Tongariro National Park. 

Fire and Emergency New Zealand said crews were at fires on the eastern side of State Highway 47. 

There are two fires measuring 30m by 200m. 

Crews are also responding to a third fire on SH47 which they have had some difficulty reaching. 

A fire has broken out at the Tongariro National Park today. Photo / Liz Brooker Tōī Communication 

There are five fire trucks there and three helicopters. 

Colin Baker from Ruapehu Scenic Shuttles told NZME he received a video of the fire and then five minutes later, the fire siren went off. 

“Someone told me it was a third alarm fire.” 

Baker said it was “rapidly developing”. 

He said he has had multiple phone calls about it and said it was reported to be in multiple locations. 

More trucks are on the way, with a further two helicopters on standby if needed, Fire and Emergency said. 

Karen Wickson, from Adrift Tongariro, said they learned about the fire in the past hour. 

“We’re just heading around to do the detour to pick up our group, and hopefully the fires are put out fairly quickly.” 

They currently have a group going the Tongariro Crossing walk. 

“Our group is safe. I have spoken with our guide."

Wickson said the group has 90 minutes left on their walk and could not see anything. 

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi said SH47 between Waimarino and Tongariro was closed. 

“Due to vegetation fires, the road is closed between SH46 and SH48. 

“Follow the detour and allow extra time for travel. 

“If travelling southbound, detour via SH1 and SH49. Reverse for northbound.” 

The Department of Conservation said on its Facebook it was aware a fire had been reported near where the November blaze took place in Tongariro National Park. 

“We are currently working with Fire and Emergency NZ to get more information and will share details once we know more.” 

A large vegetation fire burnt thousands of hectares in Tongariro National Park last month and triggered evacuations and closed highways. 

- More to come