State Highway 2 is blocked between Tauranga and Katikati as emergency services fight a scrub fire in the Whakamārama area.

A police statement at 3.05pm said emergency services were urging people to delay travel on the highway or take an alternative route.

“State Highway 2 and some nearby roads are blocked.”

The fire was near Te Puna Stream.

Police said initial reports were received at around 1.50pm.

The fire is reported to be near the bridge between Barrett Road and Te Karaka Drive.

Fire crews from Ōmokoroa, Greerton, Katikati, and Tauranga are attending, according to an online Fire and Emergency incident report.

Motorists are advised to take care in the area and expect traffic delays.

A New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi spokesperson earlier advised motorists to expect delays and avoid the area due to the fire.

Power outage

Powerco has reported an unplanned power outage at Whakamārama.

The power cut occurred at 1.47pm and is affecting 179 properties in the Minden area.

A power cut at 1.53pm is affecting 34 properties in the Whakamārama area.

Powerco advised a site investigation is under way, with field crew en route to the scene.

Power is expected to be restored by 6pm.

- SunLive