UPDATE 11.04pm: State Highway 29 is re-open to traffic after a large scrub fire sent smoke and embers across it. Fire crews appear to have the blaze under control.

Waimapu Pa Road remains closed tonight as firefighters continue to work on the fire.

EARLIER: A large scrub fire near Hairini in Tauranga has forced the closure of several streets and State Highway 29.

The blaze at Waimapu Pa Road covers an area of trees and scrub about the size of a rugby field, according to a SunLive reporter at the scene. Flames have been seen up to 10m in the air, engulfing trees.

Smoke and embers have been blowing across the nearby SH29, the main arterial connecting Oropi and Ohauiti.

Three fire trucks and a tanker are on the scene. At this stage the fire does not appear to be threatening any homes or buildings. The fire appears to be spreading towards the highway.

More to come on SunLive. Send your news photos to [email protected]