Student discovers new car swallowed by massive sinkhole

An international student has been left in tears after a massive sinkhole swallowed up her newly purchased car.

An international student has been left in tears after finding a massive sinkhole had swallowed up her newly purchased car.

On Thursday, Riina Haapala was shocked to discover her parked Peugeot on Short Street in Southport, Gold Coast, had fallen down a hole which opened up at about 4am, 7 NEWS reported.

The 21-year-old Finnish student was devastated as workers towed the car away.

“I couldn’t really believe what happened, but after about five minutes, I just started crying,” Ms Haapala told 7 NEWS.

Riina Haapala was shocked to discover her Peugeot was swallowed by massive sinkhole. Picture: 7 NEWS

The huge hole was caused by a ruptured water main, which flooded the street and resulted in the two-door Peugeot slowly sinking into the ground.

By mid-morning, a tow truck was called in to pull the car out. Footage from the scene showed the car appeared significantly damaged as it was towed out of the hole.

Ms Haapala said the car had not been insured.

“It was quite a big shock... I’m just hoping that I can claim something back from the council,” Ms Haapala said.

The huge hole was caused by a ruptured water main. Picture: 7 NEWS

Gold Coast Council services manager Chris Owens told 7 NEWS that the council would work with Ms Haapala for a resolution.

“We have insurance processes through [the] council, so the owner is now working through it with our insurance people to sort through it,” he said.

A city spokesperson told the Gold Coast Bulletin that repairs to the water main and the surrounding area were expected to be finished Thursday night.

They said a lane in Short Street had been closed off and advised drivers to avoid it.

“We apologise for any inconvenience and thank all customers, residents and visitors for their patience and assistance.”

Originally published as Student discovers new car swallowed by massive sinkhole