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A large fire in a central Auckland office block has been brought under control.
The four-storey Bank Direct Centre on College Hill, Freemans Bay, was burning strongly when firefighters arrived at 2.45am this morning.
At its peak there were 18 fire trucks and 85 staff at the scene.
Fire communications shift manager Megan Ruru said the hefty response was due to the close proximity of other buildings, "and we had the resources".
On arrival, firefighters searched the building to confirm no one was stuck inside.
Ms Ruru said that was always a dangerous job but was necessary.
"It always is, when you get there and have no idea if there are people in the building. But it's all part of a firefighter's job.
She said staff on the scene hadn't officially confirmed the fire was contained, but by 7.30am just two trucks remained.
Ms Ruru said cordons around the area were being removed but recommended people continued to avoid the area this morning.
Fire safety officers were on site investigating the cause of the blaze.
- NZPA
