Rotorua airport-goers were sent out in the pouring rain this morning after an accidental alarm activation caused the airport to be evacuated.
A Fire and Emergency NZ spokesman said they got the call-out just before 9am and sent four fire crews to the scene.
He said an alarm technician had accidentally cut a cable, which caused the alarm to sound.
Rotorua Airport chief executive Mark Gibb apologised to those inconvenienced by the evacuation but said public safety was always the top priority.
"I'd like to thank those evacuated for their patience and understanding and the staff for their actions. While in this case it was an accidental activation caused by a contractor working on site, we needed to follow the proper process to ensure the safety of those on site."