FIRE AT PAEKAKARIKI.

Dominion, Volume 2, Issue 447, 4 March 1909, Page 9

FIRE AT PAEKAKARIKI.

HOTEL COMPLETELY DESTROYED. Early yesterday morning the Paekakariki Hotel, which contained 35 rooms, was totally destroyed by fire. It appears that the outbreak was discovered by the laundress at about 5 o'clock. By that time the fire, which began at the back of the dining-room, had obtained a firm hold. Most of the inmates, who included 31 boarders, escaped in only their night clothes. Mr. Hilton, the licensee, had only time to put on his trousers and coat before he was. compelled to make good his escape. Within a quarter of an hour after the outbreak was discovered, the building, which was erected over 30 years ago, was in ruins. Jewellery valued at SgO, belonging to Mr. Hilton, was destroyed, whilst several of the boarders also lost valuables. _ About 12 months have elapsed sinco Mr. Hilton entered into possession of the hotel, which, by the wny, was a stopping-place for the coaches between Wellington and M'anganui prior to the construction of the railway. The building belonged to Mr. G. Anyon, who now resides in Fiji. It was insured in the Liverpool, London, and Globe office for ,£2IOO. Risks uver the furniture for .£2OO and over the stock for .£2OO wero held by the same office.