/ 19 May 2023

An arrest in Wellington

An exterior view of the Loafers Lodge after a fatal hostel fire in Wellington, NZ, Tuesday, May 16, 2023. Multiple people are believed to be dead after a "worst nightmare" fire at a 92-room hostel in New Zealand. (AAP Image/Masanori Udagawa) NO ARCHIVING
An exterior view of the Loafers Lodge after a fatal hostel fire in Wellington, NZ, Tuesday, May 16, 2023. Multiple people are believed to be dead after a "worst nightmare" fire at a 92-room hostel in New Zealand. (AAP Image/Masanori Udagawa) NO ARCHIVING

He hasn’t been named ahead of a court appearance today, but authorities have charged a man with 2 counts of arson over the fire at the Loafers Lodge hostel on Monday night. Reports say he was a resident in the building, more serious charges could be filed against him, and police aren’t looking for anyone else. At least 6 people died in the fire, and up to 20 people are missing. Investigators are making progress at the scene, which has been challenging to navigate because of the extensive damage to the top floor – so far, 2 bodies have been removed, and 2 more will be taken out today. Along with generating a discussion on New Zealand’s safety standards, PM Chris Hipkins says the tragedy has spotlighted the nation’s housing crisis. High rental prices and a shortage of state housing has pushed many Kiwis into temporary accommodation like Loafers Lodge.

Know someone who'd be interested in this story? Click to share...

The Squiz Today

Your shortcut to being informed, we've got your news needs covered.

Get the Squiz Today newsletter

Quick, agenda-free news that doesn't take itself too seriously. Get on it.