Four people, including three children, have died in a house fire in the town of Sanson, Manawatū's mayor has confirmed.
Police earlier said several people died in the blaze on Saturday afternoon at a home on State Highway 1, just south of the town, but would not specify how many.
It was understood police were searching for three children after the fire, and were not seeking anyone in relation to the blaze.
Mayor Michael Ford said it was a devastating tragedy, and the community was reeling.
"Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the deceased. I hope they accept our condolences on behalf of the Manawatū community, and I'm sure the entire New Zealand community."
Ford said locals were reeling.
"Our Sanson community, it's a small village, but it's an important part of the Manawatū community, and these are caring communities and no doubt will provide good support in this very sad time.
"We've also got to think about the police, Fire and Emergency personnel and all the responders who have obviously been through a traumatic time yesterday, so we thank them profusely.
"But our main thoughts and our community love are with the family and friends of those who are left behind."
Ford said the community was small and the tragedy upsetting for many.
"It's a tight-knit community, a small community, very close to Ohakea Air Base, so there are a number of Ohakea personnel in Sanson as there are in Feilding, which is not far away at all.
"So [this] will be rippling right throughout the community and deeply felt, deeply hurt and we can only imagine what the people closely affected are going through."
A scene guard was in place overnight, and officers were back at the scene on Sunday, continuing their investigation.
SH1 was briefly closed between Phillips St and Speedy Rd on Saturday.
