Firefighters battle scrap metal blaze in Auckland - update

Firefighters are continuing to battle a blaze in Auckland, with excavators being used to help break up the pile of scrap metal involved.

Fire crews were called to the blaze at Sims Pacific Metals, between the suburbs of Favona and Ōtāhuhu, shortly before 2o'clock this morning.

About 80 fire personnel have been working to bring it under control and 20 fire trucks remain at the scene.

The fire is in a 1600-tonne pile of scrap metal, which includes old cars and tyres.

Firefighters have been using water to try to dampen the flames, and now excavators are being used to help break up the pile of scrap metal.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand area commander Geoff Purcell says making sure there's sufficient water, given the scale of the fire, has been a challenge.

Crews who have worked tirelessly through the night have now been given a break, and have been swapped out with new crews for the day.

"Our firefighters have been giving everything they've got, but because of how big this fire is and the fact it's so deep-seated, it hasn't been easy," he says.

It's expected the fire will burn most of the day.

Mr Purcell says people in the area are still being encouraged to keep their windows and doors shut and avoid the area and the smoke if they can.

But he says there's no cause for alarm from the smoke, as there are no hazardous goods or chemicals involved in the fire.

If people have health concerns they can call Healthline on 0800 611 116, and people are being reminded to only call 111 in an emergency.

Acting Chief Medical Officer at Counties Manukau Health, Vanessa Thornton, says the smoke is unlikely to pose a significant health risk.

"However, if people are worried, particularly those with asthma or respiratory issues, they should seek medical advice either by calling Healthline or visiting their GP."
ENDS

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