Firefighters have returned to the scene of a scrub fire in Welcome Bay to “dampen down hot spots”.

The fire ignited at the top of Waikite Rd on Wednesday afternoon, sparking a third alarm call out, meaning extra resources were need to help battle the spreading blaze.

Helicopters with monsoon buckets were used to help fight the 50m by 30m scrub fire.

Fire and Emergency services have sent more fire trucks out today.

“We’ve got two trucks that have gone to continue to monitor and continue to dampen down hot spots,” said a Fire and Emergency spokesperson.

On Wednesday, December 4, at 6 pm, a post on Facebook by Bay of Plenty - Fire and Emergency, said the fire had been contained.

Air operations had ceased, and ground crews were continuing to work on hotspots.

“People are advised to remain clear of the area as our ground crews continue to work.”