Businesses evacuated, person in hospital after massive fire at scrap metal centre in Wellington

One person has been taken to hospital following a massive fire at a Lower Hutt scrap metal yard.

A Fire and Emergency spokesperson confirmed the person was taken for minor smoke inhalation.

He said the blaze at Macauley Metals in Seaview was under control, but they would be there for most of the day - and possibly into the evening - containing it.

Foam is being used to dampen hotspots.

A Fire and Emergency spokesperson said a cutting machine used for old fridges caught fire - causing nearby foam insulation to also catch on fire.

Nearby businesses were evacuated as a precaution and the road was closed at Parkside Rd.

A massive fire has broken out at a scrap metal centre in Lower Hutt. Photo / Bilz Mackey

Traffic delays were expected and police were asking motorists to avoid Seaview Rd while they deal with the situation.

Eleven fire crews and support crew worked to extinguish the blaze. Smoke from the fire can be seen from the motorway, billowing out across the harbour.

A small crowd has gathered to watch the incident unfold from a distance.

A police officer at the scene said the fire has now been contained but the road would remain closed for another couple of hours.

A man who works beside the burning building said he and his co-workers could often smell things burning at Macauley Metals.

Hutt Valley District Health Board has put out a warning about the fire.

"There is a large fire burning at Macaulay Metals in Seaview Petone. If you are within the smoke zone, go inside and close the windows and doors. If you have been exposed to the smoke and are feeling unwell, contact Healthline (0800 611 116) or ring your doctor for advice," the DHB posted on Twitter.

There is a large fire burning at Macaulay Metals in Seaview Petone. If you are within the smoke zone, go inside and close the windows and doors. If you have been exposed to the smoke and are feeling unwell, contact Healthline (0800 611 116) or ring your doctor for advice.

— Hutt Valley DHB (@HuttValleyDHB) July 18, 2018