New Zealand: Emergency crews responding to gas leak at intersection of Commerce Street and Customs Street E, Auckland, as of afternoon of Aug. 24

Event

Authorities are enforcing road closures and traffic diversions in response to a gas leak at the intersection of Commerce Street and Customs Street E in Auckland Central Business District, as of the afternoon of Aug. 24. The cause of the incident is unclear. There are no immediate reports of casualties or evacuations in nearby buildings. Officials have advised the public to avoid the affected area.

Authorities have closed Customs Street E and Beach Road from Albert Street to ANZAC Avenue, likely prompting localized transport disruptions. Officials are diverting bus services affected by the road closure or terminating at Britomart Transport Centre. Heightened security is likely near the affected area in the coming hours. Officials may also mandate building evacuations and business closures in the vicinity as a precaution until clearance operations and investigations end.

Advice

Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear. Seek alternative routes and allow additional travel time to nearby destinations. Confirm bus schedules. Follow all security personnel instructions, including any evacuation orders. Consider moving to a well-ventilated area, especially if you suffer from a respiratory illness, such as asthma, or conditions that lead to increased risk from gas or smoke exposure. Eye and skin irritation are possible; flush irritated areas with copious amounts of clean water.