Firefighters have brought a blaze under control at a two-storey backpackers lodge in Manawatu.
The Fire Service says crews from throughout the region had been fighting the flames at Woodlands Lodge, near the town of Sanson, since about 3pm on Thursday.
At least 16 fire appliances were involved at the height of the blaze, which gutted the roof and top floor.
The Fire Service says it appears an LPG cylinder exploded and set a wall alight outside the wooden building.
Water tankers were used due to a shortage of water in the area.
There have been no reports of anyone inside the building.
