Gas leak prompts Northland shops to evacuate

The Otaika Shopping Centre. Photo / Tania Whyte

People are able to carry on shopping in Otaika after reports of a gas leak earlier this afternoon caused them to be evacuated.

Whangārei Fire Brigade spokesperson Craig Dudley said a digger had ruptured the gas pipe underneath the car park causing a “reasonable” amount of gas to leak and people to alert emergency services.

He said they had earlier been alerted to another gas leak at Fairway Dr off Whau Valley around 1pm and shortly after received an alert for another leak at Otaika.

“Even in the first job that we responded involved someone digging up and rupturing the residential gas pipe which was resolved safely and quickly.”

Dudley said after the fire and emergency crew arrived at the shops, they immediately took steps to isolate the area and eliminate any ignition sources that could potentially fuel a fire.

The fire crew then ensured that the gas had dispersed into the air “for good” before allowing people to resume their shopping.

“While we apologise to the shoppers and motorists for any interruption. We like to remind them that we are there to help them and keep them safe. And would be nice if people could be a bit patient and understanding.”

Avneesh Vincent is the crime and emergency services reporter at the Advocate. He was previously at the Gisborne Herald as the arts and environment reporter and is passionate about covering stories that can make a difference. He joined NZME in July 2023.