Two Parkes Ave residents escaped uninjured from a Thursday evening house fire.
Firefighters were called to Parkes Ave just after 8pm to find the two storey property well alight.
"On arrival both were out and one was suffering from smoke inhalation," Whanganui fire assistant area commander David Utumapu said.
"They were taken to hospital for checks."
Five appliances attended and were able to contain the fire to the bottom level.
It was brought under control within about 30 minuets.
"Although the access was steep it's something we're prepared for."
Fire investigators were at the property on Friday morning and were looking at the cause and where in the house it started.
"At this stage it's undetermined," Mr Utumapu said.