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Source: ONE News -
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An arsonist is believed to be to blame for a massive blaze which destroyed a South Island pine plantation and forced the evacuation of more than a dozen homes.
The fire began late Tuesday night near the Marlborough settlement of Canvastown. Firefighters battled for hours to bring the 48 hectare blaze under control.
Around 15 homes were evacuated to the local marae.
The Zillwood family left as the blaze came within metres of their home.
"The main thing was getting them out and getting them away from the area, and to know that they were safe," says Mark Zillwood.
Owner of the pine plantation, Tom Bryant, was on Wednesday surveying the damage done.
Now burnt and charred, he predicts the damage to total around $200,000.
Fire crews are still at the scene, and even though the blaze is under control, stubborn hot spots are making the job difficult.
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