Rotorua Lakes Council staff and contractors have successfully been able to quench a bore that was causing hot water and steam to come up through Hatupatu Drive today.

Earlier, part of of Hatupatu Drive behind the Rotorua Sportsdrome was closed due to geothermal activity in the area.

'Water was used to cool and quench the bore,” says a Rotorua Lakes Council spokesperson. 'Water will continue to be poured into the bore over night to ensure it stays inactive. The bore is to be grouted shut permanently.”

Part of Hatupatu Drive remains closed but a detour is in place so the public can still access Oruawhata Drive and Queens Drive.

Safety fencing remains in place and security staff will be keeping an eye on things over night. 'If you're in the area please keep well clear of the safety cordons,” says a Rotorua Lakes Council spokesperson.

Council staff say that the cause of the event was due to a casing failure, likely caused by the ground conditions in the area.

'This event is not considered to be linked to any other recent bore-related events.”

Council staff and contractors continue to monitor and assess the situation.

Part of Hatupatu Drive remains closed but a detour is in place so the public can still access Oruawhata Drive and Queens Drive. Photo: Rotorua Lakes Council.