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Aucklanders were last night urged to conserve water by mayor Len Brown. He said the plan to connect two watermains over a long weekend when there would be low water usage because people were away was on hold, placing pressure on supplies.
He said he offered his "deepest commiserations" to the families of the deceased and injured. Brown said he planned to visit the family of the dead woman. He said there were 39 people on site.
Of HEB Construction, he said: "The company is hurting badly and so are we."
Watercare chief executive Mark Ford said: "It's a very dark hour for us."
HEB Construction chief executive Derrick Adams said the company had a good safety record.
"There was nothing untoward perceived at the time of the incident. You need to bear in mind that there are a number of utility lines in the area. I don't think anyone knows what caused the ignition."
Police and the Department of Labour have opened investigations.
