“Our dear friend has suffered the sudden, unbearable loss of her three beloved children, her angels.
“They were the light and love of her life, and her entire world has been shattered.
“In the midst of this unimaginable grief, she also lost her home and everything she owned. She is facing the hardest journey possible, stripped of her physical security while navigating the deepest emotional pain.”
Tonight, Manawatu Area Commander Inspector Ross Grantham also confirmed four people were killed in the fire.
“The bodies of two children have been recovered from the scene this evening, and family was present during this time to bless them with karakia.”
Grantham clarified that work is ongoing to find the body of a third child, and the body of an adult has already been removed. A “meticulous and thorough” scene examination will be done tomorrow.
“The family of the deceased are devastated at the loss of their loved ones,” Grantham said.
“They are thankful and very grateful for the support and concern they are receiving from the community.”
Four people have died in a house fire in Sanson. November 16, 2025. Photo: RNZ/Mark Papalii
Several locals who knew the family told the Herald they were struggling to come to terms with the tragedy. One called it “catastrophic”, another “very upsetting”.
Police are not seeking anyone in relation to the fire.
“This tragedy has shocked not only the local community, but also many people across the country,” Grantham said.
“Our investigators remain determined to find answers to as many questions as we can.”
The Givealittle page for the mother of the children details it was created to provide her with a “financial safety net”.
“Our goal is to provide her with the space and security needed to grieve in solitude, without the added stress of financial ruin,” the creator said.
“We cannot mend her broken heart, but we can wrap her in community support. Please join us in offering this gift of peace and practical help during her darkest time.”
As of 9pm tonight the page had almost raised $60,000.
The children’s father - believed to be in his 30s - was described as a local businessman and records indicate he had owned the property destroyed in the blaze for nearly 10 years.
Company Office documents show he has run businesses since 2018.
The fire broke out at a Sanson property and was reported about 2.30pm. Photo / Supplied
Grantham said today that police are waiting for the completion of the scene examination to piece together the circumstances that led to the blaze.
“This won’t be a fast-moving operation; it will be methodical and take time to work through what is a pretty complex and hazardous scene.”
Grantham said there were concerns about the stability of the remaining structure and they needed to make sure staff were safe while they worked.
“While the investigation is ongoing, police are also providing wrap-around support to the family and neighbours,” Grantham said.
“I want to acknowledge the support we’ve had from the Sanson township and wider Manawatū community.
“Events like this hit at the hearts of our communities and we are doing everything we can to answer the many questions around this devastating incident.”
Sign up to The Daily H, a free newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
