New Zealand: Fire ongoing in Auckland’s city center October 22

Event

Over 100 firefighters and emergency personnel have been deployed to Auckland’s city center on Tuesday, October 22, after a major fire broke out at the SkyCity Convention Center. Cordons are in place around Hobson Street and eastbound Fanshawe Street has been closed between Nelson and Hobson streets. Significant traffic disruptions are ongoing as of 18:00 (local time) as well as diversions to public bus routes. Updates to bus services can be found on the Auckland Transport website here. Authorities are asking people to avoid the area of the fire. Individuals in the city center are also being asked to take precautionary measures against smoke inhalation including staying out of the smoke, keeping windows closed, turning off air conditioning, and wiping down surfaces.

Context

According to Fire and Emergency officials, the fire started at approximately 13:10 on the roof of the convention center and then spread to the sixth floor. Insulation is reportedly on fire and gas cylinders may also be in the area. The cause of the fire is currently unknown.

Advice

Individuals in Auckland are advised to avoid the area of the fire, obey all instructions issued by the local authorities, allow additional time to travel, and to take precautionary measures to avoid smoke inhalation. Children and those with respiratory illnesses in the area are advised to limit outdoor activity.