Youths charged with arson
Police have charged two youths with arson following a fire that destroyed Taupō-Nui-a-Tia’s N Block on Sunday.
The Nelson Block, containing 12 classrooms, the Bay Trust Health Centre and the toilet block were severely damaged in the blaze, which started at about 2pm.
Detective Sergeant Allan Humphries, Taupō Police, says two young people have been charged following the fire.
“We acknowledge this will be devastating for college teachers, students and families.
“Our investigators were able to quickly identify two alleged offenders in relation to the fire.
“Two youths have since been charged with arson and are due to appear in Taupō Youth Court this week.”
Taupo-nui-a-Tia College principal Ben Claxton says the school will be closed on Monday and Tuesday.
As the block became fully engulfed, Police closed surrounding roads for about four hours while Fire and Emergency New Zealand worked to contain the blaze.
“The block of classrooms was destroyed, along with everything inside,” Humphries says.
Nearby residents were told to close their windows to avoid the impacts of the smoke.
A large crowd gathered in the field next to the school where the multi-storey classroom block can be seen burning at the upper level, with people hugging each other and others visibly upset at the loss..
A Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokesperson says they were alerted to a well-involved fire at the Taupō high school building at 2.11pm.
“Volunteer and career crews from Lake Taupō, Taupō, Kinloch, Rotorua, Tokoroa, Greerton, Tauranga, and Kaingaroa are responding.
“The fire is producing a significant amount of smoke. Nearby residents who may be affected by the smoke should close windows and doors. If you are concerned about your health, you can call Healthline on 0800 611 116. “
A Taupō News reporter on the scene says explosions and breaking glass can be heard.
Traffic was being diverted from the scene on Spa Rd and Kaimanawa St.
Taupō-nui-aTia College is advising on its website that school will be closed Monday 9 February as a result of the N block fire.
“Please do not come onsite. Please do not reply. Notification has been sent via school bridge.”
MP for Taupō Louise Upston says it is “devastating news to see”.
“Thinking of all in the local community - I know our local fire & emergency services will be doing everything they can.
“The Minister of Education has been touch, and I’ll keep you updated.”