A fire at a former Palmerston North pub that closed six schools and five early childhood centres due to fears of asbestos contamination has been deemed “suspicious” by police.
Emergency services were called to the old Fitzherbert Tavern on Ferguson St at around 5.15pm yesterday.
Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Deegan said today the fire had been “deemed suspicious” and that a scene examination was being undertaken.
“Police would like to hear from any members of the public who may have seen any suspicious persons at the premises prior to the fire.”
Fire and Emergency NZ brought heavy machinery in to help demolish parts of the building so crews could fully extinguish all hotspots, a spokesperson said.
Crews left the scene at around 2am, with a fire investigator to return this morning.
Fire and Emergency NZ confirmed there was asbestos in the pub.
The Ministry of Education told 1News six schools and five early learning services had informed them that they had decided to close today.
“These closures affect 2,436 students and around 250 children,” said Te Tai Whenua (Central) Hautū (deputy secretary) Jocelyn Mikaere.
“The decision to close remains with the boards of each school and the managers or owners of the early learning services.”
Monrad Intermediate principal Matt McCallum said there was a concern that asbestos particles and ash debris may have been carried onto the school grounds.
“As a precautionary measure, the school will be closed tomorrow to ensure the health and safety of all staff and students. There is a potential risk that air conditioning systems, water supply, and outdoor areas could be affected.”
Some guests at the neighbouring Copthorne Hotel were relocated to other hotels as a safety measure last night.
“Guests and staff at the hotel were not injured as a result of the incident. The hotel is now open and has resumed trading,” said Millennium & Copthorne Hotels NZ in a statement to the NZX.
Nine fire trucks and a specialist support support unit were on scene yesterday at the height of the blaze.
“The fire is producing a large amount of smoke so please avoid the area,” a Fire and Emergency NZ spokesperson said.
“If you live nearby, close your windows and doors and stay inside if possible to avoid the smoke.”
An emergency alert was issued for city residents which asked them to stay inside, close all windows and doors, and consider turning off air conditioning and heat pumps.
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