A street on Auckland’s North Shore was forced closed for several hours after a burst water main caused a sinkhole the size of grave.

Locals reported a burst water main causing a “big hole” in the middle of Lancaster Rd in Beach Haven this morning before calling Watercare about 9am.

North Shore councillor Richard Hills took to social media saying contractors had closed a section of the road and turned off water for approximately 25 properties as repairs were carried out.

Watercare said the closure would remain in place until the watermain repair was complete. A detour was in placed via Melba St.