Two people hurt in gas explosion at New Windsor home smelt gas, then flicked light switch, triggering explosion
A devastating explosion that tore apart a small home was caused by a gas leak around the oven.
A man and woman inside the property were lucky to survive after the powerful explosion was triggered when a light switch was turned on.
The backyard sleepout in New Windsor was levelled in the explosion that rocked the central Auckland suburb early yesterday morning.
The couple are both in a stable condition in Middlemore Hospital where they are being treated for burn injuries.
Fire and Emergency NZ fire risk management officer Jason Goffin said the explosive fire has been deemed accidental and was not being treated as suspicious.
"Once we've have access we will be able to see if any activities have taken occurred that were not consented for. Until we gain access, there isn't anything further we can provide," said the spokeswoman.
Auckland Fire and Emergency Operational Support Facebook page showed the extent of the blast saying it was so violent the roof was flung into a neighbouring garden and the back wall hurled 30m against a nearby house.
Those who attended the blaze were amazed two people managed to survive the violent blast and fierce fire that erupted at the suburban property.
They said there was little left after the explosion which could be heard across the suburb with all the walls blowing out and the roof flying through the air and into a neighbour's property.
Coffin said it was a timely reminder for people to regularly check and maintain any gas fittings and connections in homes.
He said it was important to turn gas cylinders off when finished using it.
If you smelt gas it was important to get out of the house and call 111.
