Police close Pipitea St, Wellington over ‘item of concern’, later confirmed as ‘safe’

Police cars and a bomb squad blocked a central Wellington street after authorities were alerted to a suspected dangerous item.

A police spokesperson said they responded to reports about 11.45am “of an item of concern” on Pipitea St in Thorndon.

Police appeared to be focusing on the area outside the Department of Internal Affairs.

It was understood classrooms at Wellington Girls’ College were in lockdown while police investigated and have since reopened.

By 12.45pm, six police cars blocked Pipitea St from Murphy St, preventing pedestrians from entering.

A remote-controlled robot was sent in to search a public rubbish bin.

The NZ Defence Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team was called, but stood down.

“There were some cordons in place, however, these are about to be stood down, as the item of concern has now been confirmed as safe,” police said.

The Department of Internal Affairs directed media queries to police.

Wellington Girls’ College has been approached for comment.

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