Wellington hostel fire – live: At least six killed and others missing after blaze in New Zealand capital
At least six people are dead and others are missing after a fire broke out at a four-storey hostel in Wellington, New Zealand.
Prime Minister Chris Hipkins confirmed on Tuesday morning local time that at least six people were dead at the Loafers Lodge hostel, adding that “there are likely to be more”.
Authorities said they believed that up to ten people were dead, but that estimate might change as they continue to investigate.
Local fire chief Nick Pyatt said it was a “once in a decade fire” for the nation’s capital, describing the tragedy as “the worst nightmare for us”.
Read live updates about the situation below.
A 'worst nightmare' fire in New Zealand's capital
23:56 , Io Dodds
Good evening, or good morning if you're in New Zealand. At least six people are dead and others remain missing after a hostel fire in Wellington that local authorities described as the city's "worst nightmare".
New Zealand's prime minister Chris Hipkin said on Tuesdya morning local time that six have been confirmed killed and "there are likely to be more" at the Loafers Lodge hostel in southern Wellington.
Police said they believed the total number of dead was lower than ten, but were still waiting to gain access to the building and confirm that figure.
We'll bring you more updates as we have them.
