Northland residents are being urged to pay attention to the total fire ban

The ban came into force mid-January, as hot, dry weather ravages the region.

On Friday, it took three helicopters to battle an out of control rubbish fire, which burnt five hectares.

Fire and Emergency region manager Ron Devlin says residents should avoid doing anything that may cause a spark... and start a fire.

He says it's unfortunate some people are ignoring the total fire ban, and they could find themselves being prosecuted.