Rain's been a welcome addition for firefighters battling a blaze at South Taranaki's Waiinu Beach

It broke out about 2pm yesterday, putting Waiinu Village residents on standby for possible evacuation.

Fire and Emergency says it's now about 70 percent contained and covering roughly 30 hectares.

Yesterday's 100 hectare estimate was inaccurate in heavy smoke yesterday.

It says its helicopter's being kept down by strong winds - and ground crews a hoping more rain to help bring the blaze under control.