Central Hawke's Bay community "devastated" following fire, Mayor Alex Walker says
A fire that destroyed the Waipawa Four Square during the early hours of this morning has left the Central Hawke's Bay community devastated, Mayor Alex Walker says.
Emergency services were called to the fire on High Street, State Highway 2 at 4.30am this morning. Crews from Waipawa, Waipukurau, Hastings, Napier, Otane, Taradale, Ongaonga, Tamatea, and Tikokino spent five hours battling the fire, which at one point went to third alarm level.
During this time, diversions were in place. While traffic is now able to pass through in a limited capacity, police say motorists are still asked to avoid the area near the intersection with High Street.
A police spokesperson said the fire is not being treated as suspicious.
Video/Chris Kiely.
"We are a strong community, and right now our first priority is to support Graham and Rachel and the wider Four Square and Lulu and Max families through this tragic time," Mayor Walker said.
She thanked FENZ, police, council and council contractors who have gone "above and beyond". Now, work has begun on demolishing the store.
Video/Chris Kiely.
Jason Wray owner of the building said: "We are 100 per cent behind supporting the CHB community through this tragedy and our intention is to rebuild as soon as we can".
