Scrub fire closes SH1 in Dome Vally [updated]

State Highway one at Dome Valley has been closed due to a scrub fire near the highway.

Fire Service presently have three pumps and four tankers fighting the blaze and have two helicopters on the way to assist.

Diversions are in place at Kaipara Flats Road for northbound traffic and onto SH16 at Wellsford for southbound.

Fire are the lead agency and will be supplying updates as they come to hand.

UPDATE 4.51pm

SH1 remains closed to traffic as fire service continue to fight a scrub fire immediately alongside the highway.

Fire service reports that the fire spread to an area measuring 600mX400m before it was contained. A flare up about 20 minutes ago has been dealt with and they are now damping down hot spots.

One helicopter is in use while a second is at the scene on standby. The helicopters are using the road to refuel and load water.

Wind speeds at the scene are reported to be 15kt south easterlies but smoke is still affecting visibility on the highway.

No change is expected for at least an hour and diversions will remain in place.

UPDATE  6.36pm

SH1 has been reopened through the Dome Valley and the diversions have been stood down.

Only one lane is open in each direction through the wcene of the fire and motorists are asked to take particular care.