Explosions were heard as a fire destroyed multiple vehicles in a staff carpark at Whangārei Hospital this afternoon.
Emergency services responded to reports of the blaze at around 2pm on Tuesday.
A column of thick black smoke earlier billowed from the carpark and was visible from across Whangārei.
Fire and Emergency NZ told RNZ the fire damaged more than two dozen vehicles. It had now been contained and crews were dampening down hotspots.
Five fire trucks and around 20 firefighters tackled the blaze, responding from the Onetangi, Portland, Kamo, and Whangārei stations.
Around 28 cars were damaged in the inferno with an unknown number of them destroyed, FENZ said.
The cause of the fire remained unknown and fire investigators would attend.
“The public is asked to please avoid the immediate area while emergency services are in attendance,” a police spokesperson said.
“Residents and anyone in the nearby area are also asked to close their windows at this time.”
A hospital staff member told 1News the smoke had a very strong smell and that she felt she should stay inside for her own safety. She also said there were explosions heard from the carpark.
Janine Cubitt, who was visiting her mother at the hospital, said at least 10 cars had been destroyed by the blaze.
“I didn’t see it start, but it very quickly engulfed lots of cars. They were blowing up, some of them.”
Health NZ Te Tai Tokerau group director of operations Alex Pimm said the hospital remained open and patient care continued as firefighters tackled the blaze.
“There are no reports of injuries and we are working with Fire and Emergency and NZ Police to ensure staff and patient safety.”