Station evacuated over dynamite

The box of dynamite can be seen on the steps of the Balclutha police station. Photo by Rachel Taylor/Otago Daily Times

The Balclutha Police Station has been evacuated this morning after around 100 sticks of dynamite were left on the steps station around 9.25am.

Police said the dynamite was "sweaty, wet and thought to be unsafe".

The Southland Times reported a farmer had dropped the dynamite off to police for disposal.

Army explosive experts are expected around midday to dispose of the explosives and cordons were in place until about 1pm.

The area cordoned off was James Street between Elisabeth and Renfrew, Paisley Street between Renfrew and Lanark Streets, and Renfrew Street between SH1 and Drumclog Street.

The Southland Times reported a farmer had dropped the dynamite off to police for disposal.

- NZHERALD STAFF and NZPA