Rapid action by firefighters in Nelson this afternoon saved a plantation on an inner city hillside, from serious damage.

Fire broke out on the Grampians Reserve about half past one with crews from four appliances tackling the flames which could be seen across a wide area of Nelson.

The blaze in scrub was fanned by gusty southerly winds.

At one stage the flames threatened a nearby plantation of gum trees but were brought under control before spreading too far.

The fire burned through more than 30 square metres.

Crews will be on the scene dampening down until early this evening - at this stage it's not known what caused the fire.