Gas leak pipe being decommissioned in New Plymouth

Powerco gas contractors have installed a new section of gas main on Elizabeth Place, Frankleigh Park, following a gas leak.

Brett Wolfsbauer, Powerco Gas Operations Manager, says the company had been investigating the gas smell since being alerted to it by members of the public on Tuesday.

“Thank you to those who contacted us when they smelt gas. It’s exactly what we ask people to do. 

“Using gas detection equipment, we’ve had a team out since Tuesday working to find where the smell was originating from. 

“At first, our equipment didn’t detect any sign of a potential leak. However, after another call from the member of the public on Wednesday, we again tested and located the suspected origin – on a gas main up a steep bank,” Brett Wolfsbauer says.

Because of the difficult access and to avoid disturbing existing trees and vegetation, it was decided to drill a new section of gas main on Elizabeth Place and reconnect to the network via Fernleigh Street. The pipe coming down the bank will be permanently decommissioned.

“We want people to report any suspicious gas odours to us so we can investigate them and help keep them safe. Whether they turn out to be gas leaks or not, it’s better that people let us know if they think they smell gas, rather than ignoring it.”

Click here to find out more about keeping safe around the home with gas - if you smell gas or suspect a gas leak.

People can call Powerco on 0800 111 848 if they think they smell gas. Powerco will notify Fire and Emergency New Zealand if, once on site, the situation is considered an emergency, such as imminent danger to people or property.