AUCKLAND, New Zealand -- A massive fire broke out in New Zealand's largest city, Auckland, on Thursday evening.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand said in its media release that they were alerted to the fire at a recycling plant in North Shore, Auckland, at 17:24 on Thursday.

It is understood that there are batteries on fire inside the factory, and the fire is producing large amounts of smoke, said the emergency authority.

Black smoke could be seen across the city, and a huge fireball was captured rising into the sky after an explosion.

The fire is now at Alert Level 5, with multiple fire crews from across Auckland responding, said Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

Emergency alerts have been sent to nearby residents via Emergency Mobile Alert.

"We ask people in the area to stay inside and close windows due to the smoke. There is no immediate need to evacuate unless advised to do so," said Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

An evacuation shelter has been set up at the local church. There is currently no report of casualties caused by the fire.