Large Foxton fire threatened houses, pine plantation

File photo / NZH

Fire crews say it's too early to tell what caused a major fire near Foxton in Manawatu this afternoon, which threatened houses and a pine plantation.

Firefighters from as far afield as Palmerston North and Levin battled the blaze for around two hours and are now dampening down the hot spots.

A Palmerston North Fire spokesman says homes near Union and Brown streets were considered threatened around 1.30pm, but the fire was contained before the risk eventuated.

He says the 500m/sq fire is now mostly out.

- Newstalk ZB