A man has been charged with arson following a large scrub fire in Auckland's Helensville this morning.
The one hectare blaze, which threatened a home, has been contained but part of State Highway 16 remains closed.
A police spokesperson earlier said a man was "located near the address" of the fire and has since confirmed that man has been charged with arson.
Detective Senior Sergeant Adam Lough said the 25-year-old man will appear in the Waitākere District Court in due course.
"While our investigation remains ongoing, police are not currently seeking anyone else in relation to the fire."
FENZ told 1News it hopes to get helicopters "at first light" to help douse the flames. (Source: Breakfast)
State Highway 16 remains closed between Inland Rd and Pipitiwai Dr north of Helensville.
Firefighters were called to the fire at 3.35am, containing it shortly after 11am with the help of a helicopter.
Auckland Transport said three bus stops — 4968, 4974 and 4975 — are closed until further notice.
A Helensville local preparing for their day earlier told 1News "a quarter of my route is blocked", and that stop/go traffic management was in place.
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