CBD flat off-limits after drug-lab find

A central Auckland flat was cordoned off last night after a fire broke out and a clandestine methamphetamine laboratory was uncovered inside.

The flat is on the seventh floor of a large apartment block on Greys Ave. "There was a report of a suspicious smell by a neighbour," a police spokesman said. "The property was made safe in case of an explosion ... and two people are helping police with their inquiries."

The Fire Service arrived just after 7pm after an alarm was activated at the building. A hazardous substance response unit also attended.