According to Reuters, a large fire that started at a hostel in New Zealand on Tuesday claimed the lives of at least six people. However, officials expect that number to grow given the fact that 11 others are still missing.
Just after midnight, a fire started on the top floor of Loafers Lodge in Newtown's Wellington suburb, according to Reuters, which cited police sources.
Firefighters are on the scene because there are still tiny fires burning within the structure, according to FENZ, and structural and risk assessments as well as an investigation to figure out the cause of the fire are also in progress, according to the news agency Reuters.
Police said they expect the death toll to be lower than 10, while Prime Minister Chris Hipkins reported six deaths to the AM morning news programme.
According to Reuters, he went to the location and chatted with emergency service personnel.
Hipkins said in a statement to the media following the visit, "It is an absolute tragedy and it is a horrific situation."
"In the fullness of time, of course there will be a number of investigations about what has happened and why it happened but for now, the focus needs to be on dealing with the situation," he added.
Nick Pyatt, District Manager said in a statement, "This is a once-in-a-decade fire for Wellington. It’s the worst nightmare for us."
"This is a tragic event for all involved. My heartfelt condolences go to the loved ones of those who have lost their lives," it further said.
Also Read: TCS onboards 44,000 freshers in FY23, honors all job offers
Keep watching our YouTube Channel ‘DNP INDIA’. Also, please subscribe and follow us on FACEBOOK