One person received minor burns when a fire broke out in the computer suite of the Whakatane Hospital earlier this morning.

The cause of the fire is believed to have been a faulty light fitting.

A fire broke out in the second floor of the Santon Block of the Whakatane Hospital.

Four fire trucks were called to the fire on the second floor of the Santon Block about 10.30am.

Smoke was seen billowing from the floor and firefighters wearing breathing apparatuses investigated the source.

Whakatane Hospital coordinator Julie Chapman says the building's sprinkler system was activated and the fire was brought under control.

'All staff in the vicinity of the Santon Block were immediately evacuated and the Fire Service attended. One staff member received a minor burn and was treated and discharged.

'Outpatient appointments are continuing as scheduled. The ED is running normally and elective surgery appointments will continue as scheduled unless patients are otherwise notified. Patients visiting the hospital for bloods are advised to use the Pathlab blood collection rooms at Kope Collection centre.”

Julie says there is smoke and water damage to the area, which is an administration area.

'An assessment of this damage is currently being undertaken.”