Rotorua commuters could face disruptions on Tuesday afternoon with parts of a major highway closed due to a bush fire.
Emergency services have rushed to the blaze in Waiotapu, just south of Rotorua.
Police said the fire has closed State Highway 5 at both ends of the Waiotapu Loop Road, which is about 30 minutes south of the city.
"Detours are in place, and motorists have been advised to avoid the area," the police spokesperson said.
The Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland has been evacuated as a precaution, according to police.
