A branch coming down on powerlines has been blamed for a power cut that affected 3900 Rotorua homes.
Unison customer relations manager Danny Gough said the incident happened about 5.20am this morning, causing power to go out around the Springfield and Clayton Rd areas.
Other areas reportedly affected included Westbrook, Utuhina, and Pukehangi.
Mr Gough said when the branch came down it caused "a bit of a surge" and an explosion further up the network.
"That's why it was more of a larger event."