West Auckland standoff ends, but road block continues

10:20 AM

A standoff in West Auckland that caused major problems for morning commuters has ended.

A man wanted for what police describe as numerous drugs offences has been taken into custody at a factory in Kelston.

A police spokeswoman says there were fears that the man was armed and in possession of potentially hazardous chemicals.

The Fire Service is now checking the building to see if it is safe, before a decision is made on whether roadblocks in the area can be lifted.

The incident, which began at 6.00 this morning, saw police close the busy intersection of West Coast Road and Great North Road.

The road closures prevented students of Kelston Girls High School from travelling to school. A teacher at the school says police advised them that students will not be allowed in until later this morning.

Motorists are asked to avoid the area.

- IRN