Fire & Emergency New Zealand

SkyCity Convention Centre fire – public info

SkyCity Convention Centre fire – public info

Getting out in the CBD after the SkyCity Convention Centre fire

There will still be some smoke in the CBD as fire hot spots are extinguished, so please avoid going near the smoke.

If you are exposed to smoke and you experience shortness of breath, wheezing, triggering of asthma symptoms or chest pain please see your doctor immediately or go to an Emergency Department.

In healthy people, most symptoms disappear soon after exposure to smoke ends and cause no long term health problems.

For people away from the smoke, you can now plan to clean surfaces and ventilate buildings.

Cleaning up after the fire

Smoke from the Sky City Convention Centre fire may have gotten into many nearby apartments, offices, shops and other buildings. Smoke particles and smell can persist inside buildings and some people’s health may be affected by eye and nose irritation or worsening asthma, breathing or heart conditions.

Babies and young children may be most exposed to pollutants on surfaces. This is because they spend most time in contact with floors and put their hands in their mouth frequently.

When there is no further smoke, people should plan to improve air quality inside their building as follows:

  • Open windows and doors to bring in fresh air.
  • Clean air conditioning unit filters.
  • Building managers should clean air filters and ventilation systems.
  • Wash down railings, balconies and decks, and wipe down any outside furniture and objects with a damp cloth.
  • Clean filters and covers of outdoor pools.

If your house smells of smoke

  • Ventilate your house by opening windows and doors to let in fresh air.
  • Vacuum clean (including upholstery), preferably using a cleaner with a HEPA filter.
  • Wash hard surfaces, food preparation areas and any cooking utensils left out with detergent and hot water.

Where can I find more information?