Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand
Eight fire crews including two ladder trucks and support staff are at the scene of the large timber and waste fire in Onehunga which started just after 1pm yesterday afternoon.
Last night two helicopters ceased flying around 8.15pm, and ground crews worked on rotation through the night to attempt to extinguish the deep-seated fire.
Assistant Commander Mike Manning says progress was made overnight in extinguishing the fire and this morning it remains contained but still burning.
“Our crews will be continuing the work throughout the day, with our focus on using heavy machinery to dig through the burning timber and waste pile,” he says.
“The water supply is adequate for our operations.”
Helicopters are not operating at the fire today but Urban Search and Rescue drones will be at the site heat mapping hot spots with thermal imaging.
“We ask anyone flying a drone in the area to ground it so our drones can operate,” Mike Manning says.
Victoria St remains closed and there is still a large amount of smoke in the area.
People affected by the smoke should close their windows and doors and contact Healthline if they are concerned about their health.
