Huge bang and smoke at Long Bay Beach after Defence Force detonates flare

A plume of smoke seen rising above Long Bay Beach, Auckland’s North Shore. Photo / Supplied

An “item of concern” detonated by the Defence Force was behind a loud explosion followed by a plume of smoke at a beach on Auckland’s North Shore.

The item of concern found at Long Bay Beach this morning was later found to be a marine marker flare.

A New
Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) spokesperson told the Herald that the Defence Force explosive ordnance disposal team responded to a police request for help.

“The item was investigated and determined to be a marine marker flare, which was disposed of in a safe manner.

“Anyone who discovers a potentially dangerous item should always exercise caution until the item is deemed safe by an expert. If you do discover something that might be dangerous, remain clear of the item and contact police as soon as possible.”