Intruders break into prison

Two intruders tried to break into Auckland's Mount Eden Prison earlier today.

They were spotted after they tripped an external wire alarm on the temporary walkway between Auckland Central Remand Prison and Mt Eden Prison early this morning.

Security footage shows them running from the scene but police have not yet tracked them down.

Corrections Department assistant regional manager Grace Smit said she was not sure what the intruders were doing, but she thought their break-in had been badly planned.

"We're not sure if they were intoxicated or doing a prank, but it was good practice for our security staff who made sure nobody got in or out," she said.

Ms Smit added it was highly unusual for people to try to break into prison.

- NZPA