Landfill blaze: 28 firefighters respond to Tirohia Landfill and Energy Park fire

A helicopter and 28 firefighters are battling a landfill blaze in Tirohia. Photo / Google Maps

A helicopter and 28 firefighters are battling a landfill blaze in the Waikato, potentially linked to lithium batteries.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand said they were called to a landfill fire in Tirohia at 11.33am.

A spokesperson said nine fire trucks are in attendance, some of which are water tankers.

The spokesperson said 28 firefighters are battling the 100 x 50m blaze, and a helicopter had been called.

The neighbouring school, Tirohia School, told the Herald they were informed of the fire but were not required to evacuate.

A staff member could see a small amount of smoke.

What started the fire?

WM New Zealand confirmed the incident impacted Tirohia Landfill & Energy Park and said Fire and Emergency NZ has the blaze under control.

“Initial reports suggest the fire started when a compactor drove over an item that ignited. It is too early to confirm the cause, but incidents like this are often linked to lithium batteries that have been disposed of incorrectly,” WM New Zealand said.

An investigation is now underway.

WM New Zealand said no one was injured, and there is no risk to any workers or the public.

“Battery fires are becoming more common across the waste sector. When batteries are crushed or damaged, they can ignite and create safety risks,” WM New Zealand said.

WM New Zealand advised people to dispose of batteries through proper recycling and drop-off points, not in household rubbish or recycling bins.

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