Eight crews of firefighters have contained a large fire at a property in the Christchurch suburb of Sydenham.
A Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokesperson told 1News crews received a 111 call to a building blaze in Sydenham around 11.30am, and initially sent one crew from Sydenham and a pump from Christchurch.
On arrival, crews escalated the fire to a second alarm level, and there were currently eight fire trucks in attendance from Christchurch, Spreydon, Woolston, Ilam and Wigram fire stations, including two ladder trucks.
FENZ said, in a statement: "Firefighters have contained the blaze to the single-storey 60m by 60m building, and do not expect it to spread further".
They said there was still a significant amount of smoke blowing towards Moorhouse Avenue, and advised people to avoid the area if possible.
Liam Gibling Morrison shared vision of the blaze on Brisbane Street. (Source: 1News)
Health New Zealand warned people who were sensitive to smoke – including those with heart or lung conditions, those who are pregnant, young children, and older adults – may experience symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, or irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat.
"If you are in the area, please close doors and windows. Anyone with health concerns can call Healthline 24/7 on 0800 611 116 for free health advice, or contact their own family doctor," FENZ said.
Police were also attending the scene on Brisbane St, assisting FENZ where needed.
"At this stage, road closures are in place at the intersections of Brisbane and Byron streets, and Gasson and Carlyle streets."
Police asked the public to avoid the area and traffic should expect delays due to the ongoing incident.
Hato Hone St John said one ambulance and one operations manager were sent to the scene.
"Our ambulance staff assessed one person in a minor condition. No transportation to hospital was required," a St John spokesperson said.
Footage obtained by 1News showed black smoke billowing above Sydenham due to the large fire. The fire appeared to be on a property adjacent to Plumbing World.
The blaze, and battle to contain it, has attracted a crowd of onlookers.
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