Residents of Whakapapa Village have been advised to prepare for possible evacuation as fire burns near Tongariro National park

Fire and Emergency says the blaze, which started just after 1pm, has burnt 322 hectares and is now 25 percent contained.

16 fire-trucks, 60 firefighters, and five helicopters have been fighting the fire - which has closed State Highway 47 between Highways 46 and 48.

The Department of Conservation has closed the the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and is suggesting visitors may want to leave Whakapapa Village area for safety.

It has cancelled bookings for Mangatepopo Hut and the Crossing until Wednesday morning.