Christchurch mall evacuated after gas leak

A gas leak has forced the evacuation of a Christchurch shopping mall today.

It is understood that a gas main was ruptured by workmen near Bishopdale Mall about midday.

An evacuation cordon has been put up 100m downwind of the mall, and 50m upwind, the Fire Service reports.

Two appliances are on site, and witnesses say a smell of gas can be detected in the air.

Rockgas engineers have been called in to look at the gas main.

Police are also at the scene helping with the evacuation of the mall and nearby shops.