A case of possible mercury contamination at a house in Cromwell poses no risk to the public, the fire service says.
A Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokesman said crews responded about 12.30pm to reports of a substance that was believed to be hazardous.
There was only a small amount of the substance, which was being treated as mercury, in some rubble.
Outside agencies had been called into assist, including to confirm the nature of the substance and what steps to take next.
There was no risk to the public, the spokesman said.
Two crews had attended the incident, but one was called away to deal with a minor fence fire and was stood down after.
The incident was a case of "hurry up and wait" for the remaining crew who were keeping their distance, the spokesman said.
Otago Regional Council compliance manager Tami Sergeant said it had been contacted about a mercury spill and an incident responder was heading to the site to investigate further.
