Update 2.40pm

Queenstown Airport has advised that the airport has been cleared to open following an investigation into what looked like an explosive device.

The NZDF Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit have assessed the device and given the all clear.

Update: 1:10pm

Queenstown Airport remains closed while authorities continue to work through a security risk assessment after a report of what looks to be an explosive device.

NZDF Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit is due to arrive at the Airport to assess the device.

There is a Police cordon in place at Queenstown Airport and members of the public do not have access to car parks A and B or the terminal at this stage.

About 250 people are being looked after at the Queenstown Events Centre. Food and drinks and activities have been provided to those waiting.

If you have been affected by flight disruptions, please contact your airline for further information and to rebook.

Passengers and members of the public are asked to stay away from the airport until it has reopened.

Update: 11.15am

Queenstown Airport remains closed while authorities work through a risk assessment process which they say will take several hours.

The airport is advising that anyone with flights booked today should contact their airline.

Another update is expected early this afternoon.

Previous:

Emergency services were called to Queenstown Airport this morning when it activated its emergency security protocols at approximately 8:40am in response to a potential bomb alert.

Wānaka Transfers owner Kirsty Barclay said her drivers are being turned back by police this morning.

“One of my drivers has just been turning up for a routine drop-off of a client for a flight to Christchurch at 10.15am and she has been met at the roundabout [near the airport entrance] and told she can’t go in and everyone has to be turned back,” she said.

The airport terminal has been evacuated as a precaution while the situation is being investigated by NZ Police and Aviation Security.

“There’s no people outside, every single vehicle has gone, there’s nobody in the transfers area, nobody in the pick up drop off zone, and no taxis.”

Queenstown Airport says its staff are working with airlines to ensure the safety of all passengers.

All inbound aircraft have been diverted. 

Flights are being turned back this morning

Police say that the airport terminal has been evacuated as a safety precaution and NZDF Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit has been notified and will respond.

All passengers due to depart Queenstown today, and those expecting to meet incoming flights, are asked not to come to the airport until advised otherwise.