Eastern Bay of Plenty Police investigate Kawerau hotel fire

Eastern Bay of Plenty Police have confirmed that a criminal investigation is underway after a suspicious fire at the Pinelands Hotel site in Kawerau in the early hours of this morning.

Detective Sergeant Ross Everest, from Whakatane Police, says members of the Kawerau Fire Service and Eastern Bay of Plenty Police were called to the Pinelands Hotel at about 3.00am this morning, Friday 2 July, 2010.

"The hotel's two-storey bar area was well ablaze when emergency services arrived and it is now completely gutted."

Detective Sergeant Everest says the fire is being treated as suspicious, and a criminal investigation is now underway. The investigation will be managed by the Whakatane CIB.

"As you can imagine, the investigation is in its very early stages. However, there are indications that a male at the scene was the victim of an aggravated robbery just prior to the fire starting. This man managed to escape the fire.

"We understand there are media reports that this person was doused in petrol during the course of this robbery. This is an aspect that we are investigating, however, it is too early to confirm this at this stage as we are waiting for further work to be completed."

Detective Sergeant Everest says the investigation team will be working closely with the Fire Service who are assessing the scene.

"We are keen to hear from anyone who may have been drinking at the hotel prior to its closure at 2am this morning, as well as anyone who may have been driving past or in the area around this time. We would ask them to contact a member of the investigation team through the Whakatane Police Station, on 07 308 5255."

Detective Sergeant Everest says information could also be provided anonymously through the Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.

"This man may have had a very lucky escape, and this dangerous situation could have turned out differently. Obviously we are very keen to find those responsible as soon as possible so that they can be held accountable for their actions."

There will be no further update on this incident today. A further update may be provided on Monday.