Homemade bomb found near new City Rail Link station, safely disposed

A homemade bomb was discovered near Maungawhau Station in Auckland on Monday.

Police contacted the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) after an “item of concern” was found.

The NZDF said an explosive ordnance disposal team attended and determined it was an improvised explosive device.

The device was removed and disposed of safely, according to the NZDF.

No information has been released about the nature of the device, who found it, how it came to be at the site, or whether anyone has been arrested in connection with the discovery.

Police have been contacted for comment.

A New Zealand Defence Force team identified the object as an improvised explosive device. Photo / NZME

The NZDF urged the public to avoid handling suspicious objects and to contact police if they encounter anything that may be dangerous.

“Anyone who discovers a potentially dangerous item should always exercise caution until the item is deemed safe by an expert,” the statement said.

It also advised people to remain clear of any suspicious item and notify police as soon as possible.

Further information about the discovery hasn’t been released.