Thousands of residents in South Auckland are currently facing a fire safety warning, as Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) work tirelessly to contain a massive fire at Global Metal Solutions on Hunua Road in Papakura. The fire, reported just after 4:30 pm, has prompted authorities to issue a smoke warning, advising people to stay indoors to avoid potential health risks.
Details of the Incident
Fifteen fire trucks, including three aerial appliances, are currently on the scene, battling the blaze that is expected to take hours to extinguish. The emergency response has been swift, with an emergency mobile alert issued at 5:55 pm due to the widespread smoke, especially to the east of Hunua Road. This alert remains in effect as firefighters work diligently to bring the situation under control.
FENZ assistant commander Chris Delfos revealed that fresh firefighters are being rotated in to relieve the initial crews, ensuring a continuous effort to combat the fire. With the smoke visible up to 20km away in East Tamaki, the impact of the fire is far-reaching, with neighboring areas like Red Hill experiencing thick smoke and a strong odor lingering in the air. However, despite these challenges, no injuries have been reported, and the cause of the fire remains unknown.
Community Response and Recommendations
Local authorities are urging residents, particularly those living south of the fire, to heed the safety advice and remain indoors with windows and doors shut. Manurewa-Papakura ward councillor Angela Dalton emphasized the importance of following these guidelines due to potential wind drift, ensuring that individuals stay out of harm’s way until further notice. Dalton also stressed the importance of refraining from venturing outside to witness the fire firsthand, highlighting the need to prioritize safety above curiosity.
Meanwhile, firsthand accounts from nearby businesses shed light on the impact of the fire on the community. Ezra, an employee at Opaheke Takeaways located a few kilometers from the fire, described the initial moments of the incident as a surreal experience. Witnessing a towering cloud of black smoke engulfing the skyline, Ezra recalled the dramatic scene that unfolded before them. Despite the chaos, Ezra noted that the community response remained resilient, with locals adapting to the changing conditions as traffic slowed to a halt and the once dark cloud transformed into a grey haze.
As the situation continues to evolve, it is imperative for residents to remain vigilant and follow official guidance to ensure their safety and well-being. By prioritizing caution and cooperation, the community can navigate this challenging time with resilience and unity, standing together in the face of adversity.