Suspicious package or mail

Keep Calm, Keep Safe, Take Action

If you discover an object that you suspect is potentially harmful do not touch or approach it

  • Use the suspicious features list below to determine if the item is suspicious
  • Evacuate the immediate area and prevent access to it
  • Do not activate the fire alarm

Suspicious features

  • If there is a ticking sound or protruding wires or aluminum foil, then it should automatically be regarded as suspicious
  • Excessive postage
  • Incorrect titles
  • Title but no name
  • Misspelling of common words
  • Handwritten or poorly typed addresses
  • Oily stains, discolourations or odour
  • No return addressExcessive weightLopsided or uneven envelope
  • Excessive security material such as masking tape, string, etcVisual distractions
  • Marked with restrictive endorsements, such as 'Personal' or 'Confidential'
  • Shows a city, state or province in the postmark that does not match the return address
If the item displays suspicious features If the item does not display suspicious features 

From a safe distance call:

  • The Police (111). Do not use a mobile phone or allow anyone to use one in the vicinity of the object
  • Then call Security: Use the UOA Alert app or call 0800 373 7550
  • The senior person on duty and inform them of the situation
  • Follow the advice of Police / Security

From a safe distance call:

  • Security: Use the UOA Alert app or call 0800 373 7550.  Do not use a mobile phone or allow anyone to use one in the vicinity of the object
  • The senior person on duty and inform them of the situation
  • Follow the advice of Security

Resources

Document Control
Version: 2.1
Last Updated: Jun 2026
Next Review: Jun 2029
Owner: hsw@auckland.ac.nz
Approver: Associate Director, Health Safety & Wellbeing