Second victim located after Manapouri house fire
Two people have now been confirmed dead after a house fire in Manapouri, with police still determining if others are still unaccounted for.
Detective Sergeant Mark McCloy confirmed in a statement Friday morning the second deceased person had been located by a specialist search team.
"Emergency services were called to the property about 3.40am on Thursday and were alerted that people may still be inside.
"Since then, a methodical investigation has been under way to account for the occupants of the address."
Fire and emergency crews from Manapouri and Te Anau responded to the blaze at the single-story home, which was well alight when the volunteer firefighters arrived.
Police and fire investigators will continue to examine the scene over the coming days.
Their work includes establishing whether anyone else was inside the house at the time of the fire, Detective Sergeant McCloy says.
"The thoughts of everyone involved are with the victims’ whanau, who are being supported at this tragic time.
"We would also like to thank members of the community for their concern and care."
The cause of the fire is the subject of an investigation.