Schoolboy arrested after chemical bomb scare

A schoolboy will be charged over a chemical bomb scare that forced the evacuation of the Motueka police station and surrounding houses last night.

Senior sergeant Grant Andrews said police last night located "a variety of chemicals and other items of interest" at a Mapua address.

A number of these chemicals were believed to be have been stolen during a burglary of Motueka High School yesterday.

"A youth was arrested and brought to the police station along with the chemicals," Mr Andrews said.

During transit, police noticed one of the containers appeared to be damaged. The car was parked near the station and "a chemical smell" began to cause concern.

"It seems that one of the containers had been damaged prior to police speaking with the youth."

After receiving expert advice about 8pm, police decided to evacuate the station and houses within 100m.

Fifteen residents were provided with alternative accommodation for the evening.

They were allowed to return to their homes at 6am today when the road was also re-opened.

Mr Andrews said the bomb disposal unit would destroy the "unstable and toxic" chemicals this morning.

The youth was held in custody overnight and will appear in Nelson Youth Court today charged with burglary, possession of explosives and making a hazardous substance.

- NZPA