State Highway 57, near Manawatu Gorge, is set to stay closed until midday after a large fire

Fire crews battled the blaze, which swept up a hill, for hours yesterday afternoon.

It's now been extinguished but Police say a stretch of the Highway will stay closed with a number of trees now posing a safety risk.

Several crews, including two helicopters, worked on the blaze - with concerns for houses nearby.

Motorists are advised to take alternative routes.