The Fire Service is taking seriously concerns that have been expressed in relation to a fatal house fire in Rangiora on 20 September.

Our sympathies are with the family and we have met with them to talk about what happened and answer any questions.

The Fire Service Chief Executive/National Commander has two enquiries underway to ensure the matters raised recently are investigated in a thorough, fair and objective manner.

The first is an operational audit which is a process the Fire Service uses for examining its performance at significant incidents. This report will be made public once it has been finalised.

A separate investigation is underway looking at the allegations that two senior staff had been drinking prior to attending the fire. This is being carried out by an independent investigator. Allegations of misconduct are an employment matter and the Fire Service is unable to comment further.