Police investigate concerning emails sent to schools and hospitals

Police responding to emails of a concerning nature directed to a number of organisations throughout New Zealand, including schools and hospitals.

It’s understood officers are currently searching Burwood Hospital in Christchurch.

In a statement, police said “we are working to establish the origin of the emails and have yet to establish any actual threat to any organisation. 

“Staff are working with those impacted and each organisation may respond differently according to their individual circumstances and the information available to them. 

“Police acknowledge how unsettling these emails are for all concerned.  We’d like to thank all involved for their cooperation as we investigation these emails.

Police will not be disclosing the names of individual organisations that received emails.

Fionnagh Dougan National Director Hospital and Specialist Services, Te Whatu Ora said “Some of our Te Whatu Ora hospital sites received an email of concern this morning which was immediately referred to police for further investigation. Staff have followed police advice and we are remaining vigilant. Our hospital sites have remained open and all services are continuing. Members of the public with appointments at our hospitals or needing emergency treatment should be assured it is safe to attend their local hospital as usual.