Buildings and a campground in Kaiteriteri were evacuated this morning as firefighters responded to a large gas leak near the beachfront of the popular tourist destination.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand said it was alerted to the leak shortly before 7am. Its source was identified as a restaurant at the Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve.
In an update just before 12pm, FENZ said it was scaling back its response.
Roads were reopened, and people who had been evacuated earlier in the day were able to return to their properties.
Assistant District Commander Chris Best said one crew would remain at the scene to ensure gas is completely dispersed.
"They’re expected to leave later this morning," he said.
"I would like to thank the public for their cooperation and crews for working hard to ensure the area is safe."
Earlier, the local Kaiteriteri Reserve said some of its buildings and campground were evacuated as a precaution.
It said the road was now open and, surrounding businesses were "operating as normal".
"The Waterfront Restaurant remains closed at this time, as they identify the cause of the leak. We will update this post when its open again."
SHARE ME