Improvised explosive device destroyed after being found in stolen vehicle
Monday 5 October 2026 · 3 outlets · 5 reports · updated In this story New Zealand Defence Force
Police discovered a small, homemade bomb inside a stolen car at a Mount Eden tow yard on Monday evening. The vehicle had been located in Ellerslie before being moved to the facility near the new Maungawhau station. The New Zealand Defence Force has since safely disposed of the device.
Key facts
4 facts
- An improvised explosive device was found in a stolen vehicle in Auckland on Monday.
- The vehicle was located in Ellerslie and towed to a yard in Mt Eden.
- The NZDF explosive ordnance disposal team safely destroyed the device.
- The device was found at approximately 6.30pm.
The full story
1 min read · 3 outlets
An improvised explosive device was discovered inside a stolen vehicle on Monday evening. The vehicle was found in Ellerslie and subsequently moved to a tow yard in Mt Eden. Officers located the item inside the car at approximately 6.30pm.
The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) sent an explosive ordnance disposal team to assist police after an "item of concern" was identified. The team determined the object was an improvised explosive device. The device was then removed and safely destroyed.
Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Burrow stated that while the car was being examined, "a small, improvised explosive was discovered. This was rendered safe and destroyed". Police reported there was no wider risk to the public at the time.
Inquiries into the object remain ongoing. The NZDF advised the public to stay clear of suspicious objects and contact police immediately if dangerous items are found.
Where reports differ
- Initial reports suggested the device was found near the Maungawhau station, but police later clarified it was found inside a vehicle at a yard near the station.
Compiled from reports by NZ Herald, Stuff and RNZ.