A toxic smoke warning has been issued after a major fire at a plastic recycling facility in Waiuku. Video / NZ Herald, Supplied
Waiuku residents are being told to watch their water use after the town’s reservoir was drained fighting a large rubbish fire that burned through the night.
After earlier warnings to keep their windows and doors shut to ward off toxic smoke, the township now faces a drasticwater shortage after efforts to control the blaze drained the local water reservoir.
Watercare is now asking people to only use water if it is essential as the town’s supply currently sits at 3%.
This morning, police confirmed they were treating the fire as suspicious.
Huge clouds of smoke filled the skies over Waiuku last night. Photo / Hayden Woodward
People were being advised to cover their faces and mouths if they were in the affected area near Kitchener Rd, and to only leave the house for essential reasons.
A Fire and Emergency spokesperson said they received multiple calls at 10.55pm yesterday.
At its peak, the fire covered a space of 100m by 60m, burning mostly plastic along with six shipping containers.
Sixteen fire engines were called in from 13 fire stations across Auckland, and more than 60 firefighters battled the blaze through the night.
The fire ripped through the Waiuku business park, which contains a recycling centre, a plastic fence post manufacturer, a panel-and-paint store and a laundromat.
Watercare said it had four tankers trying to refill the supply, but urged locals to avoid running the dishwasher or washing machine and to have short showers.
As of 5am, the fire was contained but not extinguished and seven crews remained at the scene.
There are no reports of injury and a police guard remains in place. A scene examination is due to be carried out today.
The aftermath of the fire in the Waiuku business park. Photo / Michael Craig
Fire and Emergency urged residents to keep windows and doors shut and stay inside.
“Remember to also keep the ventilation systems in your house and car turned off.
“We also advise people in the affected area to wear a face mask or cover their nose and mouth with clothing if going outside for essential reasons.
“If the smoke causes respiratory problems, please ring Healthline for free advice on 0800 611 116 or see your doctor if you have breathing difficulties or chest pain.”
Photos from the scene showed huge clouds of thick smoke rising from the fire. Large orange flames illuminated the night.
The fire burned overnight, fed by plastic and shipping containers.
The Waiuku volunteer fire brigade said that several roads were closed as firefighters battled the blaze.
