Five houses were evacuated in Greymouth last night following the discovery of a suspicious object initially believed to be a bomb.
The scare occurred on Ward Street in Cobden after a resident reported an object which he believed to be a bomb on his front doorstep.
Police were called around 9.45pm and discovered a cardboard box that had what appeared to be a timer device stuck on top and two wires disappearing into the box.
The area was cordoned off and occupants of nearby homes were evacuated until an Army Bomb Disposal Team arrived from Christchurch to investigate the device.
They later determined the device did not contain an explosive component and the box was removed.
Residents were allowed to return to their homes about 2.30am.
Inquiries into the incident were ongoing and police were looking to speak to anyone who had information about the origins of the package and who was responsible.
Anyone with information was advised to call Greymouth Police on (03) 768 1600. Alternatively, information can be given anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
