Fire rips through Grey Lynn home twice in 24 hours, investigation under way

Fire investigators are combing through a Grey Lynn home after fire ripped through it twice in 24 hours.

The owner said a faulty oil heater started the first fire at the Harcourt St house, causing “extensive damage”.

However, it is unknown what caused the second blaze, which totally destroyed the wooden home and partially damaged a recently renovated neighbouring property.

The female owner of the house was home at the time of the first fire, but made it out safely.

A Fire and Emergency (Fenz) spokesperson said crews were called to Harcourt St at 7.44am yesterday and three fire trucks and a ladder truck were at the scene.

Fire crews were called back to the home at 2.34am this morning.

Two fires in less than 24 hours ripped through a Grey Lynn home. Photo / Hayden Woodward

A Fenz spokesperson said six fire trucks and two additional specialist vehicles were required this time.

The fire was extinguished by 5.30am.

Photos from the scene show smoke billowing into the sky as large flames roared inside the home.

A police spokesperson said no one was injured, but the fire had caused “extensive damage”.

Firefighters returned to the scene in Harcourt St in Grey Lynn after a home caught fire for the second time in less than 24 hours. Photo / Hayden Woodward

“Inquiries are now under way.

“The circumstances of the fire are currently unclear and police will work with fire investigators to understand what has occurred.”

The Fenz spokesperson said a fire investigator would attend the scene today.

Fire crews and police were still at the scene this morning, with investigators now taking photos and combing the property.

Family linked to the house didn’t wish to comment but did want to remind others about dangers that can come from the use of heaters.

The Herald also understands the home’s attic, which is common in historic Grey Lynn villas, helped accelerate the spread of the fire through the house.

A neighbour told Stuff he was happy the owner was safe.

He said she had been in the home for over 60 years and was heavily involved in the community.

The home represented more than half a century of memories for the owner’s family, the Herald was told.

Rachel Maher is an Auckland-based reporter who covers breaking news. She has worked for the Herald since 2022.