'Explosion': Witness hears bang before Christchurch industrial fire

A witness says they heard an “explosion” moments before a blaze in a Christchurch industrial area sent thick smoke billowing across the city.

Fire and Emergency said four fire engines were fighting the Brisbane St fire in Sydenham shortly after 11.30am.

Firefighters have since contained the blaze to the single-storey 60m by 60m building, and do not expect it to spread further.

A witness, who asked not to be named, said he had been nearby when he heard an “explosion” like “something went off”.

“Initially there was just a plume in the air but then it’s just grown quite deeper and deeper,” he said.

“But really by the time I actually got to the site there was only two fire engines here then and just the smoke eventually just settled down.”

Photo / Anna Heath

Fire and Emergency said eight fire trucks are in attendance from Christchurch, Spreydon, Woolston, Ilam and Wigram fire stations, including two ladder trucks.

“There is a significant amount of smoke blowing towards Moorhouse Avenue. We advise people to avoid the area if possible, as the air is likely to be smoky,” Fire and Emergency said.

“Thick black smoke is drifting across the city, so please close doors and windows if you are downwind.

“Please stay away from the area to allow our crews to work safely to get this fire under control.

“Health New Zealand advises that people who are 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.

“Anyone with health concerns can call Healthline 24/7 on 0800 611 116 for free health advice, or contact their own family doctor.

Seven Fire and Emergency New Zealand firefighter crews are currently attending a building fire in Brisbane Street, Sydenham in Christchurch. Photo / Anna Heath

Hato Hone St John said they were notified of the incident shortly after 11.30am.

Hato Hone St John was notified at 11.37am of a fire incident at Brisbane St.

“One ambulance responded to the scene.”

Police were alerted about 11.35am.

“Brisbane Street, Sydenham, is closed while Fire and Emergency New Zealand respond to a building fire,” police said.

Firefighters are battling a large blaze in Christchurch today. Photo / Anna Heath

Road closures are in place at the intersections of Brisbane and Byron St, and Gasson and Carlyle St.

“The public is asked to avoid the area and expect delays.”

Large plumes of smoke can be seen billowing across the city.

Brisbane Street, Sydenham, is closed while Fire and Emergency New Zealand respond to a building fire. Photo / Anna Heath

Ara Institute of Canterbury’s Christchurch City campus said the blaze hadn’t impacted its nearby campus.

“Please stay clear of the area and keep windows closed if you’re nearby,” a notification alert read.

Photo / Anna Heath

Fire and Emergency New Zealand are the lead agency, police say, and they are “assisting them where needed”.

More to come.