A Whakatane man has recounted springing into action when neighbouring homes caught fire

Aze Cooper was in the shower last Thursday night - when his panicked partner informed him the next door unit was burning.

As he rushed to throw a bucket of water on the flames - the window and door blasted open.

Realising other neighbours hadn't evacuated - Cooper booted down their door and got them out safely, seconds before their home also burst into fire.

Within minutes fire crews showed up - but all three units were extensively damaged.