Gas leaking from manhole in central Auckland, people evacuated from highrise apartments

Gas leaking from a manhole in central Auckland has closed two roads and seen at least one apartment block evacauted.

Fire and Emergency NZ Deputy National Commander Brendan Nally said there were four fire crews and support crews with gas detection equipment on site.

“We ask anyone near the intersection of Customs Street East and Gore Street to keep their doors and windows closed. We also urge members of the public to avoid the area to allow our crews to continue working on site and to ensure emergency vehicles have access to the area.”

Auckland Transport said on Thursday that Customs St East and Beach Rd were both closed from the intersection of Albert St and Customs St East to the intersection of Beach Rd and Anzac Rd.

“Avoid this area or expect delays with diversions in place affecting traffic, including bus services. Please expect delays”.

An emergency alert was sent to mobile phones in the area advising nearby residents to close their doors and windows and call Fire and Emergency if they had any concerns.

“Alternatively, evacuate the immediate area and follow instructions from local authorities. Please stay away from the area to allow emergency vehicle access,” it said.

Police confirmed they were at the scene along with Fire and Emergency NZ.

A police spokesperson said police were providing traffic management support.

An employee of a nearby restaurant, who doesn’t want to be named, said all of Custom Rd has been closed, along with all the roads leading into it.

“The whole street is closed, and we have been advised to keep the doors and windows closed. An entire high-rise apartment has been evacuated.

“Our guests [people dining at the restaurant] have been advised not to leave the restaurant at the moment.”

A Stuff reporter at the scene said there was a strong smell of gas in the area.

AT confirmed trains to and from Britomart along with ferries at the Downtown ferry terminal were running as normal.