The bomb squad is responding to a "substance of concern being located" at a Southland museum.
Police say the Waikawa Museum is closed to the public after the item was found and reported to police.
"The New Zealand Defence Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit based in Christchurch has been notified and they have sent a team down to assess the situation and dispose of the substance safely," a spokesperson said.
"The disposal will happen today in a safe environment away from the museum."
Police are working with fire staff and the bomb squad to ensure the incident is managed safely.
