13 Apr 2010

Raglan fire not thought to be suspicious

7:06 pm on 13 April 2010

The Fire Service says a large blaze that destroyed a building containing several businesses in Raglan was not suspicious.

The fire begain about 6.15am on Tuesday and destroyed a large building at the end of the Waikato town's wharf.

Bulldozers have been clearing what is left of the building, which contained a kayak business, the local coastguard, a seafood business and a pottery.

Waikato acting assistant area commander Darryl Papesch says nine crews attended the blaze from throughout the region and spent the day dampening down hotspots.

Investigators will finish examing the scene on Wednesday.

Deputy mayor Clint Baddeley says the fire has cost the town about 20 jobs and will be a significant blow to the community.

It is likely the building and part of the wharf will be demolished, he says.