Firefighters are working to extinguish a blaze on a historic ship by the Waitangi Bridge in Paihia.

Four crews responded to the fire on The Tui at 4am and two further crews have been sent, Fire and Emergency NZ said.

The timber ship is fully ablaze and is already significantly damaged.

There were no people on board overnight and the cause is not yet known, Fire and Emergency NZ said.

The fire is generating some smoke around Paihia and Waitangi and people are advised to avoid the area and keep windows shut.

The TriOceans Marine Research Institute had announced earlier this year it was making moves to restore the vessel.

Firefighters work to extinguish a blaze on a historic ship The Tui by the Waitangi Bridge in Paihia. Photo / Derek Gerritsen

A spokesperson said this latest development is a huge blow and a shock, and they were looking forward to developing the ship and bringing it back to the community.

They said they don’t yet know what the situation is with the fire, and are waiting for officials to allow them to get closer.

Fire and Emergency NZ said there will be an investigation.

More to come.