Fire and Emergency New Zealand crews have contained a large fire in an Auckland recycling plant to the building.

The officer in charge, Assistant Commander Barry Thomas says crews are now continuing to work on extinguishing the fire within the building.

"Sixteen fire trucks, four ladder trucks, four specialist appliances and twelve support vehicles from across Auckland and from Hamilton, plus around 90 personnel are responding." he says.

"There are lithium-ion batteries in the fire inside the plant and the fire continues to produce toxic smoke.

"We sent out an emergency message alert around six thirty this evening with instructions for nearby public," Barry Thomas says.

"We continue to urge people living nearby to stay inside and keep their windows closed. There is no immediate need to evacuate unless advised to do so.

"Roads remain closed in the area. Please stay away so our crews can get on with the job of extinguishing the fire."

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