'Stay away': Waikato residents evacuated after unknown chemical found near water plant
Residents in a Waikato town have been evacuated after an unknown chemical was detected near its water treatment plant.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand carried out an evacuation of Kowhai St and Matipo Drive in Tuakau this afternoon.
Residents in neighbouring streets were urged to remain indoors with doors and windows closed to avoid possible exposure to fumes.
Fire and Emergency was called to the hazardous substances incident about 4pm after a “large amount of an unknown chemical” entered drains near the water treatment plant.
The Queensland Fire Department is providing specialist advice to help identify the substance.
Waikato District Council and Watercare are also involved in planning a safe flush of the drains.
The nature and source of the substance are not yet known, Fire and Emergency said.
“Other members of the public should stay away from the area until further notice.”
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