Bomb threat in Remuera shopping centre

The person who called in a bomb threat in the busy Auckland suburb of Remuera today gave a specific time when it would explode, police say.

Police closed off part of Remuera Rd and kept shoppers out of the area as members of the bomb squad combed the area.

Shortly after midday two heavily protected bomb squad members put a ladder against the wall of the Sierra Cafe in Remuera Rd and climbed onto the roof.

Minutes later the squad used a long pole to rummage through a rubbish bin on the footpath outside the cafe and took away two plastic bags.

Police said no bomb had been found but the threat, telephoned to a third party and not to police, was being taken very seriously.

Senior Sergeant Shawn Rutene told NZPA police had some leads.

"We are going to do a bit of work but we will get to the bottom of it."

"I don't think it is a hoax as such but I don't think they have gone to the extent of actually, possibly planting something. But it is somebody who wants to make a statement, I believe, and they have certainly done it with the response we have given.

Mr Rutene confirmed the caller who made the threat included a time when it would explode.

"I can't give you that at this stage, because the inquiry will be continuing and like normal, some of the information will not be released."

The area was busy with shoppers looking for last-minute Christmas purchases when the threat was made before 11am.

Police said they were well aware of the impact the closure of Remuera Rd would have on businesses and the public and would reopen the road as soon as possible.

In the meantime people were urged to avoid the area.

- NZPA