Flames engulfed the home and clubrooms of the Marist Saints this morning, devastating Auckland's rugby league community and members of the 100-year-old club.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) said it received multiple calls to the fire in the Rangeview Rd area of Mount Albert at around 3.30am.
Auckland Rugby League said they were "gutted" to hear about the blaze at Murray Halberg Park.
"Marist Saints have a long history so this is devastating for our entire rugby league community," chief executive Rebecca Russell said.
"We are working closely with Fire and Emergency NZ as they investigate the cause of the fire and are unable to comment further at this time.
"Our aroha go out to the Marist Saints community as we support the club through this tough time."
The fire was reported at around 3.30am this morning. (Source: Supplied)
Firefighters said the fire was burning strongly when they arrived, but it has since been extinguished.
"We have one fire truck still in attendance monitoring for hotspots," a spokesperson said.
"A fire investigator is on site now."
A police spokesperson said it is treating the fire as unexplained "at this early stage". They said a scene examination will be carried out later today.
"Anyone with footage or information that may assist is asked to contact police via our 105 phone service."
Information can also be anonymously provided via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
The club's first official game happened on May 3, 1919, according to its website. It played out of the Auckland Domain until its move to Murray Halberg Park in the 1970s. The club has also been the home of a number of famous rugby league names, including Sonny Bill Williams.
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