Prime Minister Chris Hipkins confirmed the death toll late Monday evening Norwegian time. The number could rise, he added.
Fire crews received a message shortly before 00.30 local time, writes the newspaper New Zealand Herald.
The fire broke out on the top floor of Loafers Lodge Hostel. The hostel has capacity for 92 residents, but it is not clear how many were present when the fire broke out.
At least 20 fire engines were on hand to fight the fire, according to the broadcaster TVNZ.
Emergency manager Nick Pyatt confirms that 52 people have been accounted for, many are still missing, and more people will be confirmed dead.
– This is our worst nightmare. It won’t get any worse, says Pyatt.
Altogether there are around 30 that have not been accounted for, but it is estimated that a maximum of ten have died in the fire.
The cause of the fire is still not known.
Several people are said to have been rescued from the roof of the building. There is now a danger that the roof will collapse, and there is also asbestos in the air.
People in the immediate area are asked to wear masks.
– Our thoughts are with all the firefighters involved, as well as all the victims of the terrible tragedy that is taking place in Wellington this morning, says Prime Minister Chris Hipkins.
2023-05-15 21:13:46
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