Police have started evacuating the occupants of the Citibank building in downtown Auckland after the discovery of a suspicious package on an exterior first floor balcony.
The package was discovered at 10am, Police were notified at 10.30am and have since notified the Department of Labour in order to activate the bomb disposal unit.
Among other tenants, the Citibank building is occupied by the United States Consulate.
Motorists and pedestrians are advised to stay away from Customs St West and the areas between lower Queen St and Commerce St.
A Police traffic management plan is in the process of being implemented and members of the public will be advised of any further restrictions to their travel.
ENDS
Issued by Noreen Hegarty
Auckland City Police Communications Manager
Ph 09 302 6947 or 0274-951-589
Website: www.police.govt.nz