Authorities confirmed the single-storey building is the Romano's pizza factory in Hillsborough. Fire crews were alerted about 1.15am.
Fire crews will be there for most of the day as they work to fully extinguish the blaze. At its peak early this morning, 11 appliances, with about 50 firefighters, were at the scene.
Smoke from the fire could be seen up to a kilometre away.
A fire investigator has been sent to the site.No one was inside the building when the fire broke out and there were no reports of injuries.
Residents are being urged to stay indoors as the fire caused a lot of smoke that might be toxic, authorities say.
The Canterbury DHB community and public health unit has issued a public health warning for smoke from the fire.
"Air around this location is smoky and there is potential that people who are sensitive to smoke – such as those with heart or lung conditions, pregnant women, young children and the elderly – may experience symptoms including coughing, shortness of breath or eye, nose and throat irritation," said Canterbury Medical Officer of Health Dr Ramon Pink.
He said exposure to smoke can worsen pre-existing health conditions such as asthma and heart disease.
“People affected by the smoke should close windows and doors and reduce outdoor exercise.
Plastic, including polystyrene, is a significant contributor to this fire and the smoke is considered toxic.
Pink said fire crews are continuing to get the fire under control. The North east wind is sending smoke in the direction of the Woolston industrial area, Ferrymead and Sumner.
“Anyone experiencing health issues from the Romano’s pizza factory fire in Hillsborough should contact their general practice team for advice, in the first instance,” Dr Pink says.
Pink said people in the area should:
- Keep windows and doors shut.
- Switch air conditioning to ‘recirculate’.
- Air out the house when the smoke clears.
- Look out for children, older people, and others at risk.
- Keep pets inside with clean water and food. Keep pets’ bedding inside if possible.
Police were on standby in case evacuations need to be carried out.
Fire and Emergency NZ area commander of Christchurch Metro, Dave Stackhouse, said the construction of the building made it difficult to fight the fire.
He said they also had to notify the local district health board about the smoke drift in the area.
Authorities are yet to determine the cause of the fire.
