News
November 22, 2025
Whangārei warehouse fire likely sparked by lithium batteries, Fire and Emergency NZ says
Fire crews battled the blaze with 11 teams at its height on Tuesday night.
**Whangārei warehouse fire likely sparked by lithium batteries, Fire and Emergency NZ says**
A large fire that engulfed a warehouse in Whangārei on Tuesday night is believed to have been caused by lithium batteries, according to Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ). The intense blaze required a significant response, with a peak of 11 fire crews working tirelessly to contain the flames and prevent them from spreading to nearby properties.
The fire, which broke out on Tuesday evening, quickly escalated, sending plumes of smoke billowing into the night sky. Residents in the surrounding area were advised to keep their windows and doors closed as a precaution. Firefighters faced challenging conditions as they worked to extinguish the inferno, battling not only the flames but also the potential hazards associated with burning lithium batteries.
"Lithium batteries can be particularly dangerous when they catch fire," a FENZ spokesperson explained. "They can release toxic fumes and are known for their potential to reignite even after they appear to be extinguished. Our crews were well aware of these risks and took appropriate precautions."
The sheer number of fire crews deployed to the scene highlights the severity of the incident and the potential for widespread damage. Firefighters worked strategically to contain the fire within the warehouse and prevent it from spreading to neighboring buildings, a task made difficult by the nature of the materials stored inside.
While the cause of the fire is still under official investigation, the preliminary assessment strongly suggests that lithium batteries played a significant role in its ignition. The investigation will focus on determining the exact circumstances that led to the batteries catching fire and whether any safety protocols were breached.
The warehouse sustained significant damage, and the full extent of the financial losses is still being assessed. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries as a result of the fire.
FENZ is using this incident as an opportunity to remind businesses and individuals about the importance of safely storing and handling lithium batteries. Proper storage, ventilation, and adherence to manufacturer guidelines are crucial in preventing these types of fires. Further information and safety advice regarding lithium battery storage can be found on the FENZ website. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with these increasingly common power sources and the need for vigilance in their handling.
A large fire that engulfed a warehouse in Whangārei on Tuesday night is believed to have been caused by lithium batteries, according to Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ). The intense blaze required a significant response, with a peak of 11 fire crews working tirelessly to contain the flames and prevent them from spreading to nearby properties.
The fire, which broke out on Tuesday evening, quickly escalated, sending plumes of smoke billowing into the night sky. Residents in the surrounding area were advised to keep their windows and doors closed as a precaution. Firefighters faced challenging conditions as they worked to extinguish the inferno, battling not only the flames but also the potential hazards associated with burning lithium batteries.
"Lithium batteries can be particularly dangerous when they catch fire," a FENZ spokesperson explained. "They can release toxic fumes and are known for their potential to reignite even after they appear to be extinguished. Our crews were well aware of these risks and took appropriate precautions."
The sheer number of fire crews deployed to the scene highlights the severity of the incident and the potential for widespread damage. Firefighters worked strategically to contain the fire within the warehouse and prevent it from spreading to neighboring buildings, a task made difficult by the nature of the materials stored inside.
While the cause of the fire is still under official investigation, the preliminary assessment strongly suggests that lithium batteries played a significant role in its ignition. The investigation will focus on determining the exact circumstances that led to the batteries catching fire and whether any safety protocols were breached.
The warehouse sustained significant damage, and the full extent of the financial losses is still being assessed. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries as a result of the fire.
FENZ is using this incident as an opportunity to remind businesses and individuals about the importance of safely storing and handling lithium batteries. Proper storage, ventilation, and adherence to manufacturer guidelines are crucial in preventing these types of fires. Further information and safety advice regarding lithium battery storage can be found on the FENZ website. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with these increasingly common power sources and the need for vigilance in their handling.
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World