Several empty frames could be seen where windows once were and the glass of other windows was stained brown.
In a statement on their Instagram page, Hoops & Scoops said they were “saddened” by the incident, but optimistic about the future.
“We wanted to express our sincere gratitude to the member of the public that raised the alarm when they did. Their actions saved the building from even further damage.
“We understand this incident will impact our small business in many ways and this will take time... We want to assure you we are working on contacting those who had pre-orders with us to offer solutions.”
The Hoops & Scoops Te Awamutu Store and Food Trucks continue to operate.
The Waikato Herald understands that the pilates studio Body Reform next door to Hoops & Scoops has been closed until further notice due to the fire and another neighbour, charitable trust Raukura Hauora O Tainui, suffered water damage.
It is understood no one was harmed during the incident.
The owners of a nearby dairy and laundromat said most business owners in the area usually open later in the day, so people arrived to the sight of fire engines and the strong scent of smoke that was still around several hours after the fire was extinguished.
