“The fire has caused extensive damage,” Robson said.
“We would like to acknowledge the assistance from the public, local businesses and Fire and Emergency NZ in this matter, as well as the work of the Counties Manukau Crime Squad in being able to resolve this matter quickly.”
Local residents were yesterday advised to watch their water use as the town’s reservoir had been drained to fight the fire.
Watercare said the town’s supply fell to 3%, but tankers had since refilled the reservoir and ensured a reliable water supply for the community.
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.
Sixteen fire engines attended the incident from 13 fire stations across Auckland, and more than 60 firefighters battled the blaze through the night.
Plastic was partially responsible for fuelling the fire, which covered an area of 100m by 60m at its peak, with six shipping containers also burnt.
As of 5am on Tuesday morning, the fire had been contained but Fire and Emergency New Zealand urged residents to keep windows and doors shut and stay inside.
