By Finn Blackwell of rnz.co.nz and is republished with permission
A grass fire that broke out on Māngere Mountain in Auckland on Saturday night has now been 99 percent contained.
Crews were called to the scene, near Domain Road, just before 9:30pm.
Seven crews fought the blaze, with firefighters also standing guard at the entrance to the road and turning away people who were trying to get a closer look at the flames.
Two crews remained on site overnight.
A Fire and Emergency spokesperson said more would go back later on Sunday morning.
A number of users on social media had posted images of the blaze, which sent smoke billowing into the sky.
Fire crews had closed the road up to the maunga. Photo: RNZ / Finn Blackwell
There was the smell of thick smoke in the air, but the extent of any damage was unclear.
In a statement, Fire and Emergency asked people to stay away from the area to allow crews to work.
“People on the western side of the mountain may experience smoke.
“If they are affected, they should stay inside and close all windows and doors.”