Exploding gas bottle causes fire

Firefighters are battling a fire at a two-storey building in Sanson, 24km northwest of Palmerston North.

The building, Woodlands Lodge, was "fully engulfed", fire communications shift manager, Mike Wanoa said.

The fire started when a gas bottle exploded inside the building - backpackers accommodation which has a restaurant - after 3pm.

Seven appliances were at the scene, and more were on their way, Mr Wanoa said.

There were no reports of anyone inside the building, he said.

- NZPA