Two children have been rescued from a burning derelict building in Hastings. One is in a critical condition with serious burns.
The blaze is now out and fire investigators are now on the scene, trying to determine a cause.
A Fire Service spokesperson said the two children were found outside the building and were believed to have been rescued by workers from a nearby building.
A witness told a Newshub camera operator they saw a teenager with serious burns.
Three adults who rescued the children have also been hospitalised for smoke inhalation. They are in a stable condition.
The Fire Service was called to the blaze on the corner of Heretaunga St West and Allerton St at about 2:30pm.
The fire was in a derelict building that contained no hazardous substances.
Police assisted with traffic management, as there was thick smoke in the area.
Traffic was diverted away from the Maraekakaho Rd and Stortford St intersections.
Diversions were in place at Townshend St and Heretaunga St West, and motorists were asked to postpone travel in the area.
Newshub.
