A switchboard that caught fire, forcing a west Auckland shopping centre to be evacuated, has been put out by fire fighters.
Santa was among those evacuated from Lynn Mall in New Lynn, Auckland. Photo: Supplied / Claire Adamson
Six fire engines were sent to LynnMall on Great North Road about 1.15 after reports of smoke coming from the loading dock area of the Countdown supermarket.
Meanwhile, across town, Auckland motorists were being advised to expect long delays after a burst water main closed part of the Mt Wellington highway.
Auckland Transport said the section between New Brighton Road and Meadow Street, near Otahuhu was affected, and detours were in place.