Unexploded mortar round found at Hamilton home

Homes have been evacuated as the Defence Force bomb squad investigates an unexploded mortar round found at a Hamilton home this morning.

Police have asked people to stay away from Willoughby St where a cordon has been set up.

The "unexploded ordnance" was found about 10.40am.

Senior Sergeant Andrew O'Reilly said workers removing a house discovered the device under a drainpipe.

"The item was left in situ while immediate neighbours were evacuated to a safe area," he said.

"The cordon currently in place is the area between the intersections of Willoughby, Richmond and Abbotsford streets."

Mr O'Reilly said at first glance the ordnance appeared to be a mortar round but a Defence Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal team on its way from Auckland would confirm that.

"Until they have given us the all-clear the area will remain cordoned off and we're asking people to stay away from the area of concern," Mr O'Reilly said.

"We've spoken to nearby playcentres and a school who have been asked to contact parents and advise them of the situation and the possible need for alternative arrangements to uplift children."