An explosion ignited by a lit cigarette while a group of teenagers were believed to be inhaling from an aerosol can was so strong that curtains from the room they were in were found in a neighbouring property.
Three teenagers suffered serious burns in the blast at a house in Mangere east about 11pm, police said.
Two girls aged 14 and 15 and a boy aged 17 were in hospital with serious injuries, police said.
It was believed the trio were huffing from aerosol cans and a fire started when a cigarette was lit.
The explosion was so severe that curtains from the bedroom were found in a neighbouring property.
Police said inhaling from aerosol cans was a very dangerous activity that could have disastrous consequences.
"This is a tragic event that that has resulted in three young people receiving very serious injuries. Huffing is an extremely risky practice which is fraught with danger," said Counties Manukau Inspector Dave Glossop.
St John northern communications shift manager Norm Ngatai said the teens suffered burns to their faces, arms and legs."
They were taken to Middlemore Hospital.
A hospital spokesman said they were admitted to intensive care. One girl and the boy were in a critical but stable condition and the other girl was in a stable condition.
- Rebecca Quilliam of APNZ
