One of Wellington's busiest fire stations is closed today due to staffing shortages

Newtown Station covers the Newtown, Berhampore, and Island Bay areas - as well as the capital's hospital, zoo and Government House.

The Professional Firefighters Union says residents will have to wait for a response from other stations in the city.

It's the second time in recent weeks a Wellington station has closed due to short staffing - with Thorndon Station closing in late August.