Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand
Firefighters are responding to a hazardous substances incident in the township of Tuakau, where a large amount of an unknown chemical has entered drains near the water treatment plant. The incident was reported at 4pm today.
Residents have been evacuated from houses in the vicinity of Kowhai St and Matipo Drive. Other people in the area are advised to stay inside with doors and windows closed to avoid possible exposure to fumes. Other members of the public should stay away from the area until further notice.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand is obtaining specialist advice from the Queensland Fire Department to assist in identifying the substance and is working with the Waikato District Council and Watercare to develop a plan to flush the drains safely. The nature and origin of the substance is not yet known.