Bush fire under control

UPDATE 5.55pm: A large bush fire in Omokoroa is now under control.

Fire fighters are at the scene and have almost extingushed the fire which was 7 metres high and about 25 metres long.

EARLIER: Fire fighters are racing to head off a large bush fire that is travelling towards houses in Omokoroa.

Fire Nothern Communications spokesperson Megan Ruru said the fire service was called to a large bush fire in Cooney Reserve about 4.50pm.

"It's travelling with the wind in the direction of houses."

Police Senior Sergeant Mark Holmes said the flames were 6-7 metres high and the fire was about 25 metres long.

Two fire trucks have been directed to Beach Grove to head the fire off from that direction.

The Omokoroa, Katikati, Greerton and Tauranga fire brigades have been directed to Omokoroa.