Couple evacuated after aviation gas leak on Refining NZ pipeline

Refining NZ continues to operate after an aviation gas leak was discovered on the pipeline to Auckland. PHOTO/File

A Northland couple has been evacuated from their home following the discovery of a leak of jet fuel on a section of the Refinery Auckland pipeline near Ruakaka.

Refining NZ spokesman Greg McNeill said a pressure drop on the Refinery to Auckland multi-product pipeline was detected at 2.30pm on Thursday.

The leak was discovered about 8km south of the refinery at Marsden Point near Ruakaka.

"We've isolated and contained the leak and our crew is busy carrying out a recovery and repair operation," Mr Mc Neill said.

The couple were living about 100m from the site and it is likely they would remain at a local motel until the repairs were complete.

A team of firefighters normally based at Refining NZ had gone to the scene and remained on a cordon.

"We're working with the oil companies to ensure that fuel supplies aren't unduly impacted," he said.

Crews were at the scene today but were still trying to discover what had caused the pipe to leak and how much gas had been leaked.

The refinery was continuing to operate while repairs were being carried out and it was not expected the incident would have a significant financial impact on the company.