Firefighters work to put out a fire in Te Arai. Video / Supplied
A “significant” fire tore through Ric’s Restaurant at Te Arai Links this morning, with crews still working to fully extinguish the blaze after bringing it under control.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand said crews were alerted at 10.08am to the blaze at the luxury golf course north of Auckland,where flames were seen burning through the large building’s roof.
Crews from Wellsford and Mangawhai responded, and diners were evacuated as the fire swept through the structure.
By mid-afternoon, Fire and Emergency said the blaze had been brought under control, though crews remained on site working to fully extinguish it.
Three crews still remained in the evening extinguishing remaining hotspots, using thermal imaging equipment to identify heat sources. A 30-tonne digger was also assisting by moving debris.
Fire engulfs Ric's Restaurant at Te Arai Links golf course.
A spokesperson said once firefighting efforts are complete, the scene will be handed back to the property owner, and an investigation into the origin and cause of the fire carried out.
In a Facebook post, Te Arai Links said it had been a “very emotional day” for everyone at the venue and it is thankful nobody was injured.
“We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the fire brigade for their rapid response,” the post read.
“Given our remote location, their ability to arrive so quickly made a significant difference.
“Ric’s is more than a restaurant - it’s the heartbeat of Te Arai Links. It’s where our team and our guests come together, and where so many moments have been created.
“Our focus now is to support the team and continue to take care of our members and guests with a temporary solution while we rebuild - and we will rebuild, quickly and thoughtfully, into something even stronger.”
Located roughly halfway between Auckland and Whangārei, Te Arai Links is set to host the 17th Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship in October this year. It will be only the second time the event will be held in New Zealand.
