Landfill fire extinguished

Dunedin (Monday, 18 April 2016) – An overnight fire at Dunedin City Council's Green Island Landfill has been extinguished and there is no risk to residents from smoke.

Dunedin City Council Group Manager Waste and Water Dr Laura McElhone says a member of the public reported the fire to the Fire Service and DCC about 3.20am today.

Dr McElhone says the fire was located on the tip face where recent rubbish had been deposited and well away from other ignitable sources.

"After firefighters contained the blaze, landfill staff used diggers to break up the affected pile of rubbish and remove it to a clay surface. Firefighters are continuing to dampen the affected area to reduce the chances of it reigniting.

"Firefighters had earlier advised residents in the area to keep windows and doors closed as a precaution, particularly for people with respiratory problems. There has been no smoke since around 8am and therefore no longer any smoke risk to residents in the area."

Dr McElhone says the landfill has now been reopened to the public. Rubbish collections are continuing as normal today.

Dr McElhone says it is not yet known what caused the fire.

© Scoop Media