An Auckland recycling plant that burnt down on the city's North Shore last night is calling on donations from the public to support staff and replace essential equipment.

The Abilities Group recycling plant in Glenfield caught fire yesterday evening, sending plumes of toxic smoke over the city.

The fire led to emergency alerts about toxic smoke. Photo: RNZ/Calvin Samuel

About 90 firefighters from across Auckland and from Hamilton responded to the fire, which was contained on Thursday evening.

The Abilities Group said a fire investigator had been at the site on Friday, and the building was being dismantled.

Fire on Auckland's North Shore as seen from the city. Photo: Supplied / Geordie Winlove

The blaze destroyed critical equipment, it said.

Managing director Peter Fraher was calling on the public to support recovery efforts.

"Abilities is more than a workplace - it's a supportive environment where disabled people find purpose, opportunity, and community," he said in a statement.

"Losing that is a huge blow."

Fraher said the organisation provided employment and support to over 100 disabled people, and was launching an urgent drive to raise funds.

Donations would go towards supporting those staff affected by the fire, finding a temporary site, and replacing what was destroyed in the blaze.

The Abilities Group recycling plant in Glenfield burnt down on Thursday night. Photo: RNZ / Kaye Albert

A Give-a-Little page has been set up for those wishing to donate.

Fraher said the support from the community had been overwhelming, and thanked emergency responders for their work controlling the fire.

"We've had an incredible outpouring of kindness from the community already, and we're so grateful.

"Now we're asking anyone who's ever believed in our mission - or simply wants to help us support our team as we rebuild - to support our fundraiser."