Scrub fire threatens Coromandel houses

Fire crews are battling a scrub fire which began in a swamp in the Coromandel village of Opoutere.

The Fire Service was called to the fire at the end of Ohui Road at 9.30am, Northern fire communications shift manager Jaron Phillips said.

Fire crews had been brought in from Whangamata, Onemana and Whiritoa, and a helicopter had been brought into assist, while other helicopters were on standby.

The fire was under control by 12.30pm but it was still threatening houses.

It was too early to say whether the fire was suspicious, Mr Phillips said.

- NZPA