Evacuations in central Auckland after chemical spill

Liquid nitrogen at Auckland University Grafton campus. Photo / Andrew Yee

A chemical spill at the University of Auckland's Grafton campus has forced police to close central Auckland roads.

Cordons are in place as Fire and Emergency respond to a major liquid nitrogen leak at the university's medical and health science block.

Fire and Emergency spokesman Daniel Nicholson said 13 fire engines are at the campus, and people in the immediate area have been evacuated.

Andrew Yee, a researcher at the university said there was no panic.

"We weren't scared when the alarm went off. We have regular fire drills and we are all well trained and prepared," Yee said.

Experts are on the scene looking at how to seal the leak and there is no imediate threat to the public, Fire and Emergency spokesman Scott Osmond said.

Cordons are still blocking Park Ave between Park Rd and Carlton Gore Rd.

- More to come.