A large fire at a car-scrapping yard in the Auckland suburb of Takanini has been contained and firefighters are working on extinguishing hot spots.
Lala, who lives in nearby Parehurehure, said she could hear "very loud explosions" and see the flames getting larger and brighter on Sunday night.
"Thick smoke filled the air very quickly.
"It took less than 15 minutes for the smoke to turn black and reach our area just above our roof.
"We could hear endless sirens and helicopters making their way to the scene."
The large fire has broke out in Auckland's Takanini. Photo: Supplied / Ooh Lala Styling
The fire on Tironui Road was spotted about 11pm.
Lala said the fire had "definitely" got smaller by midnight, and looked as if it had been contained.
"There's currently lots of flashing red fire truck lights."
Dee Taylor, who lives in a building nearby, left home after the sound of explosions fearing the blaze would get worse, and said there was an "acrid smoke" smell from the fire.
Thick black smoke could be seen billowing across the area. Photo: Supplied / Ooh Lala Styling
Earlier, Fire and Emergency said crews were working to extinguish the blaze and there were 19 trucks in attendance.
"There is a large Fire and Emergency presence on Tironui Road and on Walters Road. People are advised to avoid the area to allow Fire and Emergency crews to work.
"There is smoke in the area. People are advised to stay inside, close all windows and doors and turn off air conditioning."
By 6am on Monday, FENZ said the fire was contained and people could go return to their normal activities.
A fire investigator would return to the site later on Monday morning.
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