Firefighters are now dampening down a fire at the historic Royal Hotel on State Highway 2 in Featherston.
Fire crews found the roof and chimney of the recently-restored building engulfed in flames after they were called to the blaze by the town's fire chief at 2.43pm, a Fire Service spokesman said.
Four fire engines attended the scene.
Crews from across the region were called in to assist, but were told to turn around after the fire was contained in the chimney.
The hotel's caterer, Dean Davies, said patrons in the hotel at the time were escorted out, but have since returned.
He said the fire has caused little damage.
- NZHERALD STAFF, NEWSTALK ZB
Fire at historic Featherston hotel
The Royal Hotel. Photo / Wairarapa Times-Age
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