Compensation sought as Wellington gas disruption continues

Businesses in central Wellington affected by a cut to the gas supply believe they should be offered compensation as it emerged the gas supply may not be reconnected for another 48 hours.

About 1000 Powerco customers spent another night without gas after the supply was cut on Wednesday when water entered the company's pipes.

The leak led to office workers being evacuated and severe disruption to peak hour traffic.

Powerco Network Service delivery manager Stephen Nicholls yesterday said it was too early to say how water escaped from the water main into its gas network.

About 50 staff in the Bowen State building -- next to the Beehive -- were evacuated at 7am yesterday on the advice of police, after workers smelt gas.

Powerco said tests indicated more water had forced its way into the network than previously thought and that it could be another 48 hours before gas supply was up and running.

Many bars and bars and restaurants in central Wellington were among the businesses hardest hit, with many either closed or offering reduced menus.

Hotels in the affected area have been unable to offer guests hot showers or food and some businesses have said they want compensation for lost trade with the supply cut looking to continue over the weekend.

Dockside restaurant manager Justine Marshall said Friday was the busiest day of the week with 150 people booked for lunch.

Customers had been warned about the problems stemming from the gas supply and they had been understanding, she told National Radio.

The biggest cost at the moment was the $4000 to $5000 spent on hiring of equipment, which was money which may not be recouped, she said.

Shed 5 restaurant executive chef Eugene Hamilton said the ordeal was made worse because they were given no warning the supply would be cut.

Mr Hamilton said compensation should be offered to businesses affected by the cut.

New Zealand Restaurant Association president Mike Egan told National Radio it would be a tough fight for them to gain any compensation because companies were always trying to avoid responsibility.

- NZPA