Lanes blocked on Auckland's northwestern motorway following truck fire

26 minutes ago

Drivers are being warned to turn off air conditioning and keep windows closed because of a rubbish truck fire on Auckland's northwestern motorway.

The truck had been on fire since about 2.15pm on Tuesday, with two lanes closed westbound.

In video footage from the scene, a large truck and trailer can be seen on the side of the motorway with at least two fire trucks, one with a basket above the truck, spraying water on top of it.

Police and traffic control vehicles are also at the scene.

Photo: Supplied / Mary Beattie

Fire and Emergency shift controller Colin Underdown said it was rubbish that was on fire and firefighters did not know exactly what materials were burning.

That was why drivers were being urged to do what they could to avoid breathing in the fumes.

Three appliances were on the scene, with an extra water tanker on the way.

Firefighters were using a ladder to attack the blaze from above, he said.

Police said there were delays on the motorway.

On its website, the NZ Transport Agency said: "Due to a truck fire before the Rosebank Road off-ramp, the left two westbound lanes are blocked.

"Expect delays and pass the scene with care. Follow the directions of emergency services."

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.