The fire that struck a historic building in Whangārei, Northland is now under control, according to emergency services.
A Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokesperson told 1 NEWS firefighters moved inside the Municipal Chambers Building on Bank Street to put out any fires there.
A specialist fire truck is en route from Auckland to access a fire on the roof.
The spokesperson said authorities did not yet know the full extent of the damage, but it looked to be "significant". A fire investigator is at the scene.
Whangārei Mayor Sheryl Mai said it was a “tragic day” for the city.
She said the building was not fitted with sprinklers due to its age, but monthly checks of the building had been carried out.
“We know for certain it was checked regularly and was compliant,” she said.
“It is really sad. We’ll get to the bottom of what caused the fire.”
She thanked the firefighters for their work getting the blaze under control.
Fire services were called at 12.45pm. Multiple fire engines were at the scene this afternoon.
Photos from the scene showed thick smoke billowing from the building.
SHARE ME