A massive fire at a car workshop in Christchurch's Sydenham caused panic early on Thursday. Officials responded to reports of a blaze at the Colombo Street, ordering locals to 'stay indoors'. Emergency services were at the Auto Inspection Services shortly before 4.30 AM local time, a Fire and Emergency NZ spokesperson told media outlets.
Twelve crews and more than 50 firefighters were at the scene, the spokesperson further added, confirming that the fire was still burning. The road is closed around the building on Colombo Stree, Cass Street and Durhan Street. RNZ reported that a police car and ambulance were also at the site.
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Residents were asked to avoid the area as 'there was a lot of smoke', the spokespersons said. We have sent an Emergency Mobile Alert to residents and businesses in Sydenham, Addington and Spreydon to advise them to continue to remain indoors if possible. Keep doors and windows shut. Be mindful of using air conditioning units as these can bring smoke into your home or business. If you have any health concerns please call Healthline (0800 611 116) or 111 in an emergency".
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The cause of the fire was not revealed. No injuries have been reported yet.
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Locals reacted to the fire. "Alarming to get #AirPollution alert from @FireEmergencyNZ about smoke from a large fire in Christchurch. Hasn’t translated into lower air quality on @IQAir, yet," one person said on X, platform formerly known as Twitter.