Rainfall today at Tongariro National Park has helped dampen the fire that's rampaged across nearly 3000 hectares since Saturday. 

Fire and Emergency says a flyover his afternoon's revealed no signs of live fire.

Crews will use thermal imaging to detect hotspots tonight - which they'll target tomorrow. 

Ruapehu mayor Weston Kirton says they'll investigate what caused the fire. 

He says hundreds of hectares will need to be restored - but most areas damaged had little public access. 

"Organised tracks will be open to the public as soon as we get that 7 days lifted...and when it's safe to do so."

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