West Auckland gas leak isolated - buses replace train services

A gas leak from Vector's network in the west Auckland suburb of New Lynn has now been isolated, the company says.

The leak caused disruption to traffic with roads in the area closed, and residents and workers were evacuated from buildings.

Children were also kept indoors at the nearby New Lynn School.

The leak happened after a gas pipe was ruptured during construction work by an independent contractor this morning.

All train journeys between Avondale and Henderson were stopped this evening and a replacement bus service was provided.

Vector spokeswoman Helen Keir said crews would be working throughout the night to get repairs under way on the damaged pipeline.

Because of the extent of the damage the repairs would be a temporary and safe solution and a permanent fix would be made to the pipeline later this week, she said.

The fire service would let the evacuated people know when it was safe to return to the affected area.

Ms Keir said customers' gas supply was not affected by the damaged pipes.

- NZPA