WELLINGTON, New Zealand, June 12 (Parliament Politics Magazine) – A fire at Wellington Airport triggered evacuations of the main terminal and southwest pier on Friday, leading to widespread flight diversions. The incident began at approximately 7:15 p.m. when an automated alarm alerted authorities to a blaze involving a piece of machinery near the terminal roof.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand upgraded the response to a third-alarm level, deploying nine vehicles to the scene. This emergency fleet included five fire engines and two high-reaching aerial ladder trucks. While thick smoke filled parts of the building, officials confirmed that the internal sprinkler system activated to help control the fire.
No injuries were reported during the evacuation, as hundreds of travelers gathered in parking areas and outside the arrivals zone. However, several passengers on incoming flights were forced to remain on the tarmac inside their aircraft due to the terminal shutdown.
“Flights into Wellington have been temporarily diverted and passengers are advised to check with their airlines for information on specific flights,” the airport stated.
Air New Zealand suspended all operations in and out of the hub, creating a significant travel backlog for those connecting between the North and South islands. Jetstar reported no impacts to their schedule, while Sounds Air regional services faced delays awaiting clearance. Emergency crews and airport engineers remain on-site to inspect the structural integrity of the facility and manage remaining hotspots before the terminal can safely reopen for passengers.
