Liquor store blaze in Motueka

Investigators will today try to identify what caused a fire that destroyed a large bottle store on the main street of Motueka yesterday.

Fuelled by burning alcohol, the 500sq m Super Liquor building was engulfed in flames by the time firefighters arrived soon after midday.

About 100 people were evacuated from nearby businesses to avoid smoke inhalation, Motueka Chief Fire Officer Mike Riddell said.