A fire broke out at the New World Victoria Park supermarket in Auckland on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, resulting in extensive damage to the building and triggering a large-scale emergency response.
The fire alarm was activated around 11:18 a.m., prompting an immediate response from Fire and Emergency New Zealand. At the peak of the incident, 23 fire trucks and approximately 80 firefighters, along with support personnel, were deployed to the scene.
“The damage inside the store is very extensive, as you can see from outside the store, and the inside is not much better,” Incident Controller Phil Larcombe said.
The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, but investigators will be considering all possible factors.
“We’re very grateful for the response of our people all across Auckland who responded. We always appreciate the work that they do,” Larcombe said.
He also expressed his gratitude to the New Zealand Police, St John, Auckland Emergency Management, and the building’s owners.
“This is a very good time for all businesses to check that their own fire evacuation schemes are in place and meet requirements.”
New World handed back to its owner
One day after a major fire erupted at New World, the fire service has handed over the building to its owners, Foodstuffs.
Nick Hanson, head of property for Foodstuffs North Island, said he was among the first to inspect the damaged supermarket.
“Inside, it’s a confronting scene.”
“Much of the damage appears to be in the ceiling area, and ceiling panels have collapsed in several places.”
Hanson said that it will take time to fully evaluate the extent of the repairs and rebuilding required.
He mentioned that the timeline for reopening the supermarket remains uncertain. They are also exploring ways to support their 180 staff in the coming days and weeks, and in the meantime, employees will continue to receive their pay.