Palmerston North residents say they heard “explosions” ring out early this morning as multiple cars burned.

A Fire and Emergency spokesperson said they were called to Tremaine Ave at 4am after reports that cars were on fire.

He said they sent four trucks to the scene and extinguished the blaze in about four hours.

He said he was unsure if the fire was suspicious, as no investigator had been sent to the scene.

Footage of the fire shared online showed large flames and smoke billowing in the commercial area.

Residents said they heard “explosions” coming from the site early this morning.

Police directed all comments to Fire and Emergency.

The Palmerston North Fire Station has been approached for comment.