Waiuku residents are being told to watch their water use after the town’s reservoir was drained fighting a large rubbish fire that burned through the night.

After earlier warnings to keep their windows and doors shut to ward off toxic smoke, the township now faces a drastic water shortage after efforts to control the blaze drained the local water reservoir.

Watercare is now asking people to only use water if it is essential, as the town’s supply now sits at 3%.

This morning, police confirmed they were treating the fire as suspicious.

Huge clouds of smoke filled the skies over Waiuku last night. Photo / Hayden Woodward

A local business owner told the Herald he heard there was footage of a man running from the scene moments before the fire broke out.

He said it started in Future Post’s warehouse, away from any machinery, so he believed there was a “rare chance” it was started by accident.

Fire and Emergency referred this statement to police, who have been approached for comment.

The man recounted his terrifying journey to his store after seeing the flurry of social media posts about the blaze.

He told the Herald he could see the large orange flames illuminating the sky and thick clouds of smoke billowing from 20km away.

The power to the cameras surrounding his store quickly shut off, so he was left with an anxious drive, praying his livelihood would be intact.

The man arrived along with many of the fire engines, and with the help of the wind blowing in the right direction, his store, filled with thousands of dollars’ worth of merchandise, was spared from the massive blaze.

“It was pretty wild,” he said.

A local business owner said he could see the flames from 20km away. Photo / Michael Craig

People were being advised to cover their faces and mouths if they were in the affected area near Kitchener Rd, and to only leave the house for essential reasons.

A Fire and Emergency spokesperson said they received multiple calls at 10.55pm yesterday.

At its peak, the fire covered an area of 100m by 60m, with mostly plastic burning, along with six shipping containers.

Sixteen fire engines were called in from 13 fire stations across Auckland, and more than 60 firefighters battled the blaze through the night.

The fire ripped through the Waiuku business park, which contains a recycling centre, a plastic fence post manufacturer, a panel-and-paint store and a laundromat.

Watercare said it had four tankers trying to refill the supply, but urged locals to avoid running the dishwasher or washing machine and to have short showers.

As of 5am, the fire was contained but not extinguished and seven crews remained at the scene.

There are no reports of injury and a police guard remains in place. A scene examination is due to be carried out today.

The aftermath of the fire in the Waiuku business park. Photo / Michael Craig

Fire and Emergency New Zealand urged residents to keep windows and doors shut and stay inside.

“Remember to also keep the ventilation systems in your house and car turned off.

“We also advise people in the affected area to wear a face mask or cover their nose and mouth with clothing if going outside for essential reasons.

“If the smoke causes respiratory problems, please ring Healthline for free advice on 0800 611 116 or see your doctor if you have breathing difficulties or chest pain.”

Photos from the scene showed huge clouds of thick smoke rising from the fire. Large orange flames illuminated the night.

The fire burned overnight, fed by plastic and shipping containers.

The Waiuku volunteer fire brigade said that several roads were closed as firefighters battled the blaze.

Kitchener Rd remains closed between Racecourse Rd and Queen St. There was no access to View Rd from Kitchener Rd.

Traffic trying to enter Kitchener Rd from King St will be diverted up Queen St and through the detours.

“Use alternative routes and follow the signs.

“Please stay clear of the area and follow any instructions from firefighters, police, or other personnel on scene.”

The brigade also advised residents in the area to be mindful of wind changes and any smoke from the fire.

“Sending love to our community, thanks for the support and helping us to help you.”