10 May 2018

Mystery fumes: Building evacuated again, more unwell

8:22 pm on 10 May 2018

After mystery fumes caused dozens of people to fall ill this morning, a central Auckland office building has been evacuated for the second time this evening.

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Fire and Emergency crew at the scene this evening. Photo: RNZ / Sally Murphy

Fire and Emergency was called to Augusta House on the corner of Victoria Street West and Elliot Street this morning after an unusual smell was noticed on the eighth floor.

Twelve people were taken to hospital and another 100 assessed after suffering nausea, headaches and vomiting.

The building was cleared and no gas was found.

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However, this evening ambulance crews were called back at about 5.30pm, with people reporting the same symptoms.

St John said three people had been taken to hospital in a moderate condition and nine others were being assessed.

Staff were also checking people as they exited the building.

Fire and Emergency has checked the building with gas detectors and said there was no smell inside.

The building has been evacuated and would remain closed overnight.

Three ambulances, two fire trucks and a hazardous materials unit are at the scene.

Qantas, which has its office in the building, said it was working with the property manager and authorities to find out the cause.