26 Feb 2024

Woman who died in house bus fire was tourist from China

5:57 pm on 26 February 2024
Fire engine

Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

The person who died in a house bus fire on the West Coast was a female Chinese tourist, the Chinese Embassy has confirmed.

The woman died after the bus caught fire in Blue Spur, Westland in the early hours of 20 February.

In a statement, the embassy said the woman was touring the South Island with her husband, who escaped the blaze unharmed.

"The Chinese Embassy in New Zealand deeply mourns her unfortunate demise, extends deepest condolences to the deceased, and offers sincere sympathy to the bereaved family," the statement said.

"In the wake of this tragedy, the Chinese Embassy once again reminds Chinese tourists visiting New Zealand to improve their awareness and ensure personal safety."

The embassy was providing assistance to the woman's family, the statement said.

Police said the investigation into the fire was ongoing.

The woman's husband was being supported by the embassy, police, Victim Support and the wider community, a spokesperson said.