UPDATED 1.41pm A ruptured gas main has closed Felton Matthew Avenue in the Auckland suburb of St John.

The rupture was reported to the fire service just before one o'clock.

Northern Fire Service spokesman Scott Osmond said the rupture was a result of a company boring underground.

He said a cordon is in place by there is no danger to the public.

"Residents have been asked to stay in doors and police are diverting traffic from the area, just as a precaution.

"We're really just there to support Vector, who is dealing with the leak. Ruptures like this happen quite regulary."

The Fire Service was alerted at 12:15pm and one fire truck went to the site.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area and take alternative routes.

Felton Mathew Avenue is closed between Farmhouse Lane and Howard Hunter Avenue.