An outward bound Air New Zealand flight has been halted on an Auckland International Airport runway with smoke appearing to be coming from the undercarriage.
A witness told 1News smoke appeared as the aircraft was taxiing before taking off, and stopped at the end of the runway. "It has been there for about an hour. Some flights are being diverted because of the problem," the witness said, just after 11.30am.
Air New Zealand chief risk and safety officer Nathan McGraw told 1News in a statement: "Flight NZ81 from Auckland to Hong Kong experienced a technical issue with the braking system when positioning for take-off at the end of the runway this morning.
"The aircraft is currently being assessed by our engineers to ensure its safe removal from the runway.
Air New Zealand said Flight NZ81 to Hong Kong experienced a technical issue with the braking system. (Source:Wellington Flights Live) (Source: Supplied)
"We apologise for the disruption and are working to get customers to their destinations as soon as possible. We thank them for their patience and understanding."
Flight NZ81 was bound for Hong Kong and was scheduled to depart at 10.15am.
A 1News staff member at Christchurch Airport said: "Customers have been informed there are delays on flights due to the closure of Auckland's runway, with updates to follow."
1News has sought further information and will provide updates as they come.
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