Updated: Power to return in another hour

UPDATED 3.19pm: Strong winds are believed to be responsible for knocking power out to residents in half the Western Bay of Plenty.

Power outages were recorded inMaketu, Otamarakau, Paengaroa, Papamoa, Pongakawa, Pukehina, and Te Puke.

The outages are the result of a power line coming down on Rangiuru Rd, south of Te Puke.

Contractors at the scene said it was expected the power would not be restored for at least another hour or two.

A reporter at the scene said it was believed winds knocked the line off its perch and onto grass below.

EARLIER: Power is believed to be out to half of the Western Bay of Plenty after downed lines south of Te Puke this afternoon.

Powerco reports Maketu, Otamarakau, Paengaroa, Papamoa, Pongakawa, Pukehina, and Te Puke are without power but they were still working to establish the reason why.

The Bay of Plenty Times understands the outage is due to powerlines down on Rangiuru Rd, off State Highway 2 at Waitangi.

Powerco stated power should be restored by 6pm.