A sink hole up to 10 metres deep has been found on the 45th Parallel Walking Track, in Cromwell. A fence has been erected around the hole while the Central Otago District Council explores options to control the hazard.

A sink hole up to 10 metres deep has been discovered near a popular Central Otago walking track.

The Central Otago District Council has issued a warning to the public that a "significant" sink hole has been found near the 45th Parallel Walking Track, in Cromwell.

Recreation and Parks Manager Mathew Begg said it was situated next to the track from the access over the stile from the main entrance off Luggate-Cromwell Rd.

Jo McKenzie-McLean Cromwell residents starting the climb up the 45th Parallel Walking Track. A sink hole estimated to be up to 10-metres deep has been found near the track.

"It is approximately five to 10 metres up past the stile and about one metre to the left. The hole itself is approximately 1.5m in diameter with a depth estimated between five to 10 metres. This is a significant hazard to the safety of walkers, especially for children and dogs."

The hole could not be seen from the track, Begg said.

"The track itself is safe to use and council advise to stay on the track at all times."

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A group of Cromwell Rotarians, who maintained the track, discovered the hole on Tuesday and promptly fenced it off, he said.

Temporary signage would go up shortly, Begg said.

"A more permanent sign will go up later and assessments will be made this week looking at options for permanent control of the hazard."

He believed the hole developed within the past week.

They did not know what had caused the hole, he said.

One option being considered was whether it was an old mining area, he said.

"We are just trying to get some information about old mining in that area and as to whether it might be related to that."