Major fire at Waitotara Hotel in south Taranaki; firefighters respond to blaze

A large fire engulfed the Waitotara Hotel in South Taranaki on April 17, with Fire and Emergency NZ responding to the scene shortly before 6pm. The two-story building was fully engulfed in flames, requiring a significant response from fire crews, including at least eight pumps and pump rescue tenders, a mobile command unit, six water tankers, an incident commander, and other resources.

Hotel patrons had already evacuated before firefighters arrived. Police and ambulances were notified and responded to the scene, although the extent of any injuries was not specified. Water availability is hampering firefighting efforts, and the building is expected to be destroyed.

"More than 20 appliances are responding to the fully involved hotel fire", Fire and Emergency NZ said.


Police and ambulance have been notified and are still responding to the scene. At least eight crews are on scene with more en route. Patrons inside had evacuated the building before fire crews arrived.

A Fire and Emergency spokesperson said water availability in the area is also hampering the efforts of firefighters. He expected the building to have been destroyed in the blaze. The fire is being fought by a large contingent of firefighters.

Water supply is proving to be a challenge for the crews. Fire and Emergency have also set up a water supply area in the Four Square in Waverley for tankers to refill so firefighters can continue to fight the fire. The public is asked to keep well clear of Waitotara township.