Diners were evacuated as a fire broke out in Ric’s Restaurant at Te Arai Links this morning.

Multiple fire crews are battling the blaze at the luxury golf course north of Auckland.

A Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokesperson said crews were alerted to the fire at 10.08am and the fire is now burning throughout the roof of a large restaurant building.

A Te Arai Links spokesperson said it was “very emotional, the restaurant caught fire and is now destroyed”.

“The fire started at the back of the building so we had enough time to evacuate the people who there for breakfast.

“Thanks to the fire brigade for getting here quickly. We’re out in the middle of nowhere so it was good that they got here quick.”

Fire engulfs Ric's Restaurant at Te Arai Links golf course. Photo / Supplied

The first crews to arrive at the scene requested additional support triggering a “third alarm” fire. Six crews from around the area are currently in attendance. The fire is not yet under control.

Located roughly halfway between Auckland and Whangārei Te Arai Links is set to host the 17th Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship in October this year. This is only the second time the event will be held in New Zealand.

Te Arai Links opened in 2022 and has two courses ranked in the top 100 globally. In February, the first Te Arai property to hit the open market was listed for $18 million.