NSW firefighter dies while battling blaze in the Hunter region

A volunteer firefighter has died while battling a blaze in the NSW Hunter region.

The male volunteer was fighting a fire near Cessnock when he suffered a suspected heart attack earlier this evening.

Rural Fire Service Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said the man's death is a tragic reminder about the dangers faced by members.

"This is a terrible tragedy, where somebody who has gone to assist the community in its time of need, has paid the ultimate sacrifice," Commissioner Fitzsimmons said in a statement.