Hundreds evacuated in central Auckland blaze

Between 200 and 300 people have been evacuated from a fire at Federal House in central Auckland.

SkyCity spokesman Colin Espiner said all staff at Federal House had been evacuated and smoke could be seen from the top of the Federal House building.

Federal House is the SkyCity administration building. Mr Espiner said the casino and hotel had not been evacuated.

"We're just letting the fire people do their thing."

He said there were between 200 and 300 people currently evacuated from the building and they were waiting for more information from the Fire Service.

"There is some smoke coming from the top of the building."

Two fire trucks are parked on Federal St, where hundreds of evacuated diners have gathered.

Lunch time crowds were rushed out of restaurants on the popular strip.

Workers of office buildings near SkyCity have been evacuated after a fire in chimney ductings this afternoon.

Crowds of workers are on Albert and Federal Sts after the 2pm incident.

Fire Service spokesman Dave Carroll said a fire was extinguished but more work was needed to ensure no others started.

There is a thick smell of smoke in the area.

Mr Carroll said: "There is a large amount of ducting chimneys and they go through the kitchens in all these restaurants and things.

"The smoke as fumes get sucked out, and one of the ductings has caught fire around the back."

Fire alarms could still be heard coming from the carpark beside Federal House.

Federal House, and the restaurants at ground level - Federal St Deli, Depot as well as Masu were all evacuated.


- NZME.