Wellington landslip threatens homes

A landslip beneath The Terrace, in central Wellington, this morning has threatened two houses and forced the evacuation of at least 10 residents.

Wellington City Council spokesman Richard MacLean told NZPA the slip came down at Athol Crescent just after 8am today, taking a concrete retaining wall with it and narrowly missing a carpark below.

Council staff and engineers are at the site assessing the stability of the slope. No decision has been made yet about when the residents might be able to return to their properties.

Mr MacLean said the council was investigating the possibility that a burst water main last night may have contributed to the slip.

- NZPA