Waiouru fire still producing smoke after several days

A fire in Waiouru has not spread since it started burning over the weekend but a small amount of smoke is still being produced.

Fire and Emergency said the vegetation fire at the Waiouru Military Training Area had not grown in size on Wednesday but drone teams would be working overnight again to survey any hot spots.

The fire had burnt through over 3000 hectares since it was sparked by gun fire during military training on Sunday.

"While some flareups did occur as expected, the fire has not grown in size," Fire and Emergency Incident Controller Nigel Dravitzki said.

"A perimeter flight this morning has more accurately confirmed the fire to have covered 3700 hectares."

Six New Zealand Defence Force ground crews, local volunteer fire brigades and air operations had been working on the blaze from Wednesday morning.

Additional ground crews are set to join on Thursday including Department of Conservation firefighters and all crews would be be supported by heavy machinery and aircraft.

FENZ said firefighters had taken advantage of more "favourable weather" to keep the fire from spreading.

On Tuesday morning, MetService head of weather news Heather Keats told Morning Report the strong winds were making it difficult to fight wildfires, but rain was expected to help and the wind forecast to ease.

Health New Zealand advised that anyone sensitive to smoke could experience symptoms such as coughing and shortness of breath.

"Anyone with health concerns can call Healthline 24/7 on 0800 611 116 for free health advice, or their own family doctor."