Devendra Kumar
An overnight fire at a four-storey hostel in Wellington, New Zealand’s capital, has claimed at least six lives, with the Prime Minister Chris Hipkins confirming the devastating toll. The country’s leader understands that six people have been confirmed dead, with the possibility of more fatalities. Police, however, have yet to determine the exact number of casualties, but believe it is fewer than 10 people.
Emergency services were dispatched to Loafers Lodge hostel around 12:30am local time, responding to reports of a fire. Wellington Fire and Emergency district manager Nick Pyatt reported that 52 people had been accounted for, but a number remained unaccounted for. Pyatt’s words conveyed the gravity of the situation, stating, “I can sadly report that this will be a multi-fatality incident. Our thoughts at this time are with the families of those who have perished and with our crews who valiantly rescued those they could and attempted to rescue those they couldn’t.”
The cause of the fire remains unexplained, and an investigation is underway, involving police, fire, and emergency officials. Wellington City Council is providing assistance to the 50 people who escaped the fire, including the elderly who were left with only the clothes they wore. The council has set up an emergency centre at a local running track, offering showers and other facilities to those affected.
The hostel, which offers both short-term and long-term rentals, has been found to be a popular accommodation option for those working with government agencies, providing emergency housing. Loafers Lodge advertises itself as an affordable place to stay in Wellington, including for those visiting nearby Wellington Hospital.
As the investigation continues, the community is coming together to support those affected by the tragedy. MacLean, the Wellington City Council spokesman, described the scene, “A lot are clearly shaken and bewildered about what happened.” The city’s leaders and residents are mourning the loss of life and hoping for a speedy recovery for those who survived the devastating fire.