UPDATED 7.01PM: A fire which tore through a Tauranga home is now under control.

A witness at the scene says flames could been seen leaping from the home on the corner of Chapel Street and Brown Street at about 6.45pm.

The witness says firefighters had the fire under control shortly after they arrived at the scene.

Four fire trucks were called to the scene, along with police and St John Paramedics.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

EARLIER:

Flames can be seen as a fire tears through a Tauranga home near the Tauranga CBD.

A caller to the 0800 SUNLIVE news hotline says the fire is at the flats on the corner of Chapel Street and Brown Road.

A witness at the scene says there are four fire trucks and ambulance has just left the scene.

"It appears the fire is now under control."

Motorists driving past are asked to drive with care and expect delays.

At the scene?

Call 0800 SUNLIVE or email photos to newsroom@thesun.co.nz