Fire at South Westland school

Six rooms in the technology block at South Westland Area School were either destroyed or badly damaged in the blaze, which is believed to have started in the home economics room, shortly after 7pm on Thursday.

Harihari Volunteer Fire Brigade Chief Fire Officer John MacIntosh said the building was well involved when they arrived, and back-up was called from Whataroa.

Mr Macintosh said firefighters worked for more than two hours to contain the fire. Two crews worked inside, and another on the roof, removing the iron to douse the flames from above.

Principal Ross Brockbank said the school was closed yesterday and would remain closed until Tuesday, while staff and the board of trustees worked out a reoccupation plan.

The block was the newest part of the school, having been renovated eight years ago.

- Hokitika Guardian