Firefighting efforts have been successful in reducing the significant fire at the scrap yard in Woolston overnight.

The fire has been contained to the main car pile, although it is still burning and will be for some time.

There are seven fire trucks fighting the blaze at the moment.

Assistant Commander Dave Key said “this will be a long-duration incident and firefighters are expected to be on the scene throughout Thursday.

The smoke plume is currently going straight up, and people in the immediate area should stay indoors, while residents and businesses should keep their doors and windows closed.

Cordons remain in place on the streets around the fire, including Cumnor Terrace, Garlands Road and Marshall Street.

NZTA said SH74A Garlands Rd is currently closed between Rutherford St and SH76 Opawa Rd due to a fire.

Motorists are advised to use an alternative route at this time.

Motorists should consider using SH74 Tunnel Rd and SH76 Opawa Rd/Port Hills Rd as an alternative. Local detours are also in place.

Fire and Emergency has personnel at each of the cordons to assist those residents who self-evacuated to get back to their homes.

“We again would like to thank the public and surrounding businesses for their co-operation as we fight this fire,” Key said.

Environmental efforts continue to ensure the runoff into the Heathcote River is either stopped or contained. Booms were put in place on the river and sucker trucks are being used to drain any runoff.