Bushfire emergency warning downgraded for Port Stephens, New South Wales

An emergency warning has been downgraded for a large bushfire burning in Balickera and Limeburners Creek in Port Stephens.

The NSW Rural Fire Service says conditions are easing in the areas of the Pacific Highway and Bucketts Way at Balickera, north of Raymond Terrace.

The emergency warning previously issued has been reduced to a Watch and Act alert as conditions continue to ease and temperatures cool.

Firefighters will continue to work on the blaze overnight.

Authorities have advised residents remaining in the area to take shelter to avoid the heat from the fire.

North Medowie Road is closed in both directions, while the Pacific Highway has been re-opened in both directions.