Woman critical after fire, man charged with assault

A 42-year-old woman is in a critical condition after suffering severe burns during a house fire in Rotorua last night.

Detective Sergeant George Staunton said the woman's 44-year-old partner escaped with minor injuries.

Mr Staunton said the Ngongotaha Fire Service was called to the house fire about 11pm.

The woman was airlifted to Waikato Hospital's intensive care unit by Westpac Rescue helicopter from Rotorua hospital early today.

The woman's partner has been charged with assault and is due to appear in the Rotorua District Court today.

Police and fire safety officers were still examining the scene, Mr Staunton said.

- NZPA