Search for Missing Persons Intensifies After Raging Bucklands Beach Fire
Auckland, NZ — A frantic search is underway for two people following a ferocious house fire that erupted at a two-storey property in the East Auckland suburb of Bucklands Beach early this morning. The devastating blaze on Murvale Drive also resulted in injuries to three other occupants, two of whom were rushed to hospital.
Two People ‘Outstanding’
The alarm was raised shortly after 2:30 am, bringing a massive emergency services response to the usually tranquil residential street. Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) dispatched five fire crews to battle the flames, which were described as “massive” by neighbours.
Counties Manukau CIB Detective Inspector Tofilau Faamanuia Va’aelua confirmed the immediate priority for police and fire investigators at the scene.
“At this stage, we can advise that two people are currently outstanding,” Detective Inspector Va’aelua stated. “We are working to establish what has occurred and urgently locate the people unaccounted for.”
The top storey of the dwelling was reported to be “well involved” when firefighters arrived, leaving the house significantly damaged.
Witnesses Report Explosions and Towering Flames
The intensity of the fire jolted local residents awake. Neighbour Cathy Harwood recalled being roused by her dog barking around 2 am, followed by “strange” noises from outside.
Other neighbours described hearing loud cracking, popping sounds, and even mini “explosions” as the fire took hold. One local resident, who filmed the raging blaze, estimated the flames were shooting five metres into the air from the top of the house.
The immediate community response was swift, with approximately 15 to 20 people gathering outside, yelling to ensure neighbouring properties were evacuated. Despite the lack of wind being a potential saving grace for nearby trees, the house was quickly engulfed.
Injuries and On-Site Investigation
Hato Hone St John attended the scene at 2:36 am, treating three individuals. Two people were transported to Middlemore Hospital: one in a serious condition and the other in a moderate condition. A third person was treated for minor injuries at the location and did not require hospitalisation.
A full investigation by Police and FENZ is now underway. Police have established cordons on Murvale Drive, between Janome Place and Jandell Crescent, and are expected to remain on-site for most of the day as they conduct a meticulous scene examination, including the use of a drone to survey the extensively damaged structure. The residual smell of smoke still hangs heavily in the air across the street.
The incident occurred concurrently with another fire in South Auckland, where four fire trucks were called to a commercial building on Lambie Drive in Papatoetoe around the same time. The roof fire there was contained and is also under investigation
