Trains stopped after gas leak near Middlemore

Middlemore Hospital in south Auckland. Photo / Martin Sykes

Trains on Auckland's southern line have been stopped following a gas leak just south of Middlemore Railway Station this morning.

Fire Service communications shift manager Jaron Phillips said the fire service was called to Hospital Road, Papatoetoe just before 11am after contractors ruptured a 150mm gas main.

Mr Phillips said the surrounding area has been evacuated and Orakau Rd has been closed. The gas leak is adjacent to Middlemore Hospital.

"At this stage because of the wind direction these is no danger to the hospital but if the wind changes there could be a threat," he said.

"We are working with Vector gas contractors to isolate the leak."

- NZ Herald staff