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Finlay Dunseath/Stuff
Fire crews respond to a flat fire at the Hanson Court apartment blocks in Newtown on Sunday afternoon.
Residents have been evacuated from a Newtown apartment complex after a fire engulfed a flat.
Fire and Emergency were notified of a fire in a flat at the Hanson Court apartments in Newtown about 4.56pm on Sunday.
One aerial and nine fire engines responded to the scene at the four-floor apartment blocks.
Assistant commander Martin Wilby said the fire was contained to one flat on the third floor which was left with “quite severe damage”.
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One person was taken to hospital after suffering smoke inhalation, he said.
Just after 6pm, Wilby said the fire had been put out and some residents were starting to be allowed back inside.
Thermal imaging tests were being undertaken to ensure it was safe for residents to return to their apartments, Wilby said.
Finlay Dunseath/Stuff
Fire crews inspect the flat which was left severely damaged by a fire.
A fire investigator was en route to determine the cause of the blaze, he said.
Residents spoken to by Stuff said fire crews were quick to respond and the fire alarms were crucial.
“If it wasn’t for the alarms we wouldn’t be here,” one resident said.
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