Thick black smoke has been billowing over Taupō this afternoon as firefighters — including crews travelling from as far away as Tauranga — worked to contain a significant blaze at Taupo-nui-a-Tia College.
Fire and Emergency NZ said it was alerted to a large fire at the high school around 2.11pm on Sunday.
A spokesperson said volunteer and career crews from Lake Taupō, Taupō, Kinloch, Rotorua, Tokoroa, Greerton, Tauranga, Turangi, and Kaingaroa were responding.
"The fire is producing a significant amount of smoke. Nearby residents who may be affected by the smoke should close windows and doors. If you are concerned about your health, you can call Healthline on 0800 611 116."
In an update this evening, Fire and Emergency said crews had contained the blaze to the building and "were able to stop the fire spreading to neighbouring structures".
"Crews have multiple hose lines set up and are attacking the fire externally from all sides of the building.
"There is no indication of a cause yet."
Police were called to assist firefighters at the scene with traffic control around 2.15pm.
Spa Rd was closed "for the safety of the public and those responding", Fire and Emergency said.
Smoke from the fire had been visible across Taupō and from out on the lake, with loud popping sounds heard as the blaze intensified.
Taupo-nui-a-Tia College said the school would be closed on Monday as a result of the blaze, urging people not to come to the site.
"School will be closed Monday, February 9 as a result of the N block fire. Please do not come onsite."
Taupō District Council asked residents to avoid the area and give emergency services the space they need.
"Traffic management is being put in place near the school, along with cordons to keep people away from the scene."
Witness Allan Goldsmith told 1News he saw a black column of smoke coming from the direction of the school while he was having lunch and went to take a look.
"There was a really strong smell of polystyrene, and there was what looked like burning polystyrene coming out of the windows, and the windows were exploding," he said.
"It was quite scary to see how quickly the flames started to spread along the building."
Taupō MP Louise Upston said in a post it was "devastating news" to see.
"Thinking of all in the local community – I know our local fire & emergency services will be doing everything they can."
Nearby Tauhara College, the Taupō District's other secondary school, said the school's thoughts were with everyone affected by the fire.
"On behalf of Tauhara College, we are sending aroha and support to all impacted."
Taupo-nui-a-Tia College has a roll of more than 1100 students.
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