A suspicious package that was discovered in central Auckland did not contain any explosive device.
Police were advised of a call this morning at about 5:30am. It was claimed an explosive device had been placed in a service station in Park Road, Grafton.
The device is described by police as being very elaborate, with its construction involving a great deal of effort and expense. It contained a mounted battery as well as electronic equipment and other items that are being examined by police.
Police describe the placement of the package as sinister. It was located on top of petrol storage tanks, near Auckland City Hospital. This caused major disruption to the Hospital as well as to traffic. Residents within a 200-metre vicinity of the device were evacuated with the cordons being removed just before midday.
Police are following lines of inquiry as to who is responsible for the device.
Issued by/attributed to
Jayson Rhodes
Police Communications Manager
4889 758 or 027 281 0271