Box of flies sparked Beehive evacuation

A box packed with flies with a note on top saying it contained a bomb led to the Beehive being evacuated this morning.

The whole executive wing was evacuated when the package was discovered about 8am by an arriving worker in Agriculture Minister David Carter's office on the fifth floor of the Beehive.

The building was evacuated and police set up a cordon, closing down Molesworth St and adjacent streets.

Police donned special equipment before heading up to the fifth floor, but staff were told just after 10.30am they could return to the building.

Police shift commander at Wellington Communications, Inspector Marty Parker, said a box was delivered with a note with "words to the effect" that it contained a bomb.

A source confirmed flies were in the box.

Mr Parker said forensic work would now begin and inquiries were ongoing.

Prime Minister John Key and Cabinet Minister Steven Joyce bunkered down at local watering hole The Occidental during the scare.

The pub is a parliamentary institution and the ministers and about 15 staff used the opportunity to grab a bite to eat.

"It's not the normal start to a Monday morning unfortunately," Mr Key said.

Business continued as Mr Key got emails on his phone and discussed issues with Mr Joyce.

However, it was too far to say Cabinet had reconvened in the pub.

"It won't be Cabinet but it's the first time I've had breakfast here, delicious."

Beehive staff returned to their offices after the scare.

Mr Key said the necessary safety precautions were taken and Cabinet this morning has been rescheduled to take place at Premier House.

- NZPA