Police are investigating a major fire burning in Auckland's Helensville on Thursday morning.
Fire and Emergency NZ (FENZ) crews are working to put out the bush fire near the Kaipara Coast Highway, which was reported around 3:30am.
"Firefighters found a large fire, in bush, described as uncontained and spreading quickly uphill," a FENZ spokesperson told Newshub.
Waka Kotahi (NZTA) have confirmed SH16 is closed between Inland Rd and Pipitiwai Dr.
"Delay your journey or follow directions of response crews in the area," they said.
Three fire trucks and a water tanker are on the scene, where half of the fire has now been contained, with crews "working to contain the fire on the other side".
"As a precaution, crews are working to protect one property, which is approximately 200 metres from the fire," the FENZ spokesperson said.
Police are also at the scene, where enquiries into the circumstances of the fire are ongoing.
"Emergency services are in attendance at a fire in Helensville this morning near the Kaipara Coast Highway," a police spokesperson said.
"A male was located near the address and is currently assisting police with our enquiries."
"Emergency services remain at the scene and diversions are currently in place between Pipitiwai Drive and Peak Road."
