Several fatalities have been confirmed following a house fire in the Manawatū town of Sanson.
The blaze, which closed part of State Highway 1 for a time, saw emergency services rush to the scene around 2.30pm.
Fire crews from the Bulls, Rongotea, Manawatū, Whanganui, Marton and Palmerston North brigades were called to the incident.
In an update around 7.30pm, Inspector Ross Grantham, Manawatu Area Commander, confirmed there were several fatalities.
“Police can confirm there have been several fatalities at the scene of a house fire in Sanson today,” he said.
“Emergency services were called to the property southwest of the town about 2:30pm.
“Fire and Emergency NZ have now handed the scene to Police, who will commence an investigation phase in relation to the circumstances of the fire.
“Police can confirm we are not seeking anyone else in relation to the fire.”
There will be a scene guard in place overnight, and police will return in the morning.
