A suspicious fire which has engulfed five hectares near Blenheim is now under control, with it being described as a close save.
More than 35 firefighters and four helicopters have been battling the blaze on the Wither Hills behind Blenheim, with two other helicopters standing by.
The region is currently in the grip of a drought, with rain not forecast till next Wednesday.
Marlborough Kaikoura Rural Fire Authority Principal Fire Officer Richard McNamara says the fire could have been a repeat of the destructive boxing day blaze in 2000.
Mr McNamara said Wither Hills Farm Park has been closed and they are asking the public to stay away so firefighters can do their job.
