The union for firefighters claims lives and property on Auckland's North Shore are at risk due to a shortage of crews in the area.

The union says fire crews are being moved north to improve coverage in the Rodney District area, but that is leaving the North Shore short staffed.

Athol Conway, national vice-president of the Professional Firefighters Union, says areas such as Devonport are particularly at a disadvantage, a point highlighted by the problems tackling a serious fire in Belmont yesterday. He says fire engines are being sent out with not enough team members on board, which breaks Occupational Safety and Health regulations.

Mr Conway says suitable coverage needs to be provided for the Rodney District as soon as possible. The union has discussed the issue with the Fire Service but believes it has not had a suitable response.