Taihape farm worker named after fatal house fire

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A Taihape farm worker who was killed in a house fire despite a passerby's efforts to save him has been named by police.

Hamish Allan, 28, died after the fire engulfed the house he shared with his partner about 10.30pm on Saturday.

Constable Tony Lomas of Taihape police said a passerby notice smoke and flames coming from the house on Micklesons Rd in Utiku.

"He entered the house and woke Mr Allan's partner who was asleep. She managed to exit the burning house with her cat and the man went back in for Mr Allan, however the house was soon engulfed in flames and he was unable to get to him safely."

Mr Allan's partner was uninjured.

Police and the Fire Service were investigating the cause of the blaze, which was not believed to be suspicious.

Wanganui Fire Service assistant area manager Greg Ward yesterday said the fire was believed to have started in the bathroom.

The death has been referred to the coroner.