The final cost of the controversial Hemo Gorge sculpture has risen by almost $120,000.

The Rotorua Lakes Council has tacitly acknowledged in a statement that an impasse has occurred, delaying the installation of the sculpture by several months.

A recent council sub-committee meeting discussed the cost over-run in committee.

While confidential, the nub of the discussion was apparently posted on a site operated by the Rotorua District Resident and Ratepayers' group.

The posting became the subject of debate at a recent full meeting of the council with Councillor Charles Sturt objecting to the breach of confidence, noting one of two members of RDRR, Councillor Raj Kumar, was absent when the matter in committee was discussed.

The council decided to investigate the source of the leak.

Hemo Gorge roundabout site.

In response to a Rotorua Now query this week, the RLC says it had not found who leaked the information.

Today the RLC has confirmed it will 'continue the construction” of the sculpture.

This hints that the final stages placed the huge $743,029 structure was in jeopardy.

The council's final contribution has risen from $240,000 to $388,000 with, it says, project partners Red Stag Timber, Civic Arts Trust, Rotorua Trust, Infinity Foundation and the Lion Foundation.

The final stage of construction is underway with Rotorua firm Kilwell about to join the 12-metre long individual pieces together like a giant kitset, ready for installation.

Kilwell Fibretube took over the project when the original fabricators were unable to create the shape of the design using stainless steel. A world first in terms of 3D printing, the project has faced a number of manufacturing challenges, requiring innovation to come up with solutions.

The company's CEO Craig Wilson says the project has been ground-breaking.

Despite the significant challenges the project has presented, Mr Wilson says he and his staff are very proud of what they have produced and they hope the community will be, too.

As a world first in 3D printing, the project has included a stringent testing regime was put in place by Gurit Composite Engineering. The sculpture and its base plate have been built to withstand winds of more than 175kmh – equivalent to a grade 5 hurricane.

Hemo Gorge artist's impression.

With the structure is in its final stages, plans are afoot to transport and install on site at Hemo Gorge.

The sculpture will have a final height of 12 metres and a total weight of 3300kgs. All going well it should be in place before the end of June.