An Air New Zealand A320 made an emergency landing at Melbourne Airport about 8pm Thursday night after reports of engine trouble and leaking fuel.
Auckland-bound Flight NZ726 issued a mayday call soon after taking off at 7.48pm.

The plane took off over the northern suburbs and tracked east but banked sharply as it flew over the Dandenong Ranges, circling over the bay and returning to the airport.

MFB and CFA fire and rescue crews, along with Victoria police and AFP officers, raced to the runway as the plane circled.

Melbourne Airport spokeswoman Anna Gillett said the A320 landed safely and without reported injury.
‘‘We will be working with Air New Zealand for the comfort and the safety of their passengers.’’
The incident has not affected the airport’s operations or other flights.
Air New Zealand is expected to issue a statement about the incident shortly.
More to come