17 Aug 2023

Evacuations underway after fire breaks out at commercial building in Christchurch

1:01 pm on 17 August 2023
Firefighters are at the scene of a commercial fire on Buchan Street in Sydenham on 17 August, 2023. The fire appears to be at Christchurch Radiators and firefighters could be seen dampening down hotspots.

Firefighters could be seen dampening down hotspots at Christchurch Radiators on Buchan Street in Sydenham. Photo: RNZ / Anna Sargent

Firefighters have brought a blaze at a Christchurch automotive shop under control.

One person has minor injuries as a result of the fire, which forced buildings to be evacuated in Buchan Street in Sydenham, about 11.40am on Thursday.

At the time of the evacuations, police said they were assisting with road closures and traffic management of the immediate area.

"People in the area are advised to listen to directions from staff and avoid the vicinity within 100 metres of the fire."

Fire crews were dousing hot-spots and investigators would examine the cause.