Police are still investigating the circumstances that led to an explosion in a south Invercargill house last week.

A police spokesperson said today that they cannot rule out the possibility of laying criminal charges until the investigation is completed. 

Emergency services were called to an explosion and fire at a residential address on Rothesay Place in the suburb of Rockdale, on the afternoon of September 9. 

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Three people were injured and two, a 28-year-old male and a 27-year-old female were flown to Dunedin Hospital where they received treatment for their burns. 

A spokesperson for Fire and Emergency said the fire started in the kitchen and dining area and there was “substantial damage” to the house. 

It's understood the explosion occurred after a butane gas bottle exploded.

The two have since been released from the hospital and will be spoken to by police about the circumstances of the explosion and the fire.

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A Givealittle page has been set up by Anna Cannon, the mother of the male victim, to raise funds for the pair who lost belongings in the fire. 

"Becky and Sam were rushed to Southland Hospital, then to Dunedin Hospital by helicopter. They both have serious burns to their face and arms," she wrote. 

"They have lost clothing, appliances, books and other belongings in the fire and are unable to return to their Housing NZ house at present. They will need ongoing support as they recover from their injuries and the trauma they have experienced."

She added the pair, who are a couple, do not have insurance and are living in a motel at present until permanent accommodation can be arranged. 

The Givealittle page was created on September 13 and has so far raised $520.