Wellington airport terminal evacuated as firefighters battle blaze

Fire crews are responding to a significant blaze at Wellington Airport after smoke was seen billowing from part of the terminal complex on Friday evening.

1News reported that emergency services rushed to the airport as firefighters worked to locate and contain the source of the fire. Images from the scene showed smoke pouring from a terminal building while crews continued firefighting operations.

The New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union said the incident had escalated to a major emergency response.

"Firefighters from around Wellington have responded to a third alarm fire at Wellington Airport.

"A second high-reaching aerial appliance has been requested to tackle the blaze," as quoted by 1News.

Wellington Airport confirmed that parts of the airport had been evacuated following the activation of a smoke alarm.

"The southwest pier and main terminal building at Wellington Airport have been evacuated tonight following the triggering of a smoke alarm," the airport said in a statement, 1News has quoted.

Airport officials said there were no reports of injuries, and emergency services were actively responding to the situation.

"No one is reported to be hurt, and emergency services, including FENZ and Airport Fire Service, are on site," as quoted by 1News.

The disruption has also affected air travel, with incoming flights temporarily diverted away from the capital.

"Flights into Wellington have been temporarily diverted and passengers are advised to check with their airlines for information on specific flights, as quoted by 1News.

"We will provide further updates tonight as they come to hand."

Fire and Emergency New Zealand referred inquiries to Wellington Airport for further details.

Meanwhile, police said officers were assisting with the evacuation process.

A police spokesperson said officers "may be assisting in helping people get out of airport buildings," 1News has quoted.

The cause of the fire has not yet been confirmed. Emergency crews remain at the scene as efforts continue to bring the blaze under control.