Police are supporting the Fire Service in an investigation in to a house fire in Foxton Beach that has claimed two lives.
The fire occurred around 2.15am at a house in Hulke Street and the bodies of a woman in her 20s and a female child under the age of 5 were discovered inside the house. A second woman in her 20s, believed to be related to the dead child, was rescued from the house by neighbours.
No more details about any of the occupants are being released at this time until all next of kin have been informed.
Detective Senior Sergeant Marc Hercock who is overseeing the police involvement, said: "It is far too early to know whether the fire is suspicious or not, but there have been two deaths so it is natural for the police to become involved in order to report to the Coroner."
A scene examination is being conducted in conjunction with the Fire Service and is likely to continue for some hours.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 06 351 2546 or 027 234 8256.