Fire at hostel in New Zealand, at least six people died

(Patria) - At least six people died today in a fire that broke out in a hostel in Wellington, New Zealand. Officials warned that the death toll could be higher.

"We still don't know where a certain number of people are, just as we cannot currently confirm the number of dead," the New Zealand Fire and Emergency Service (FENZ) announced.

Prime Minister Chris Hipkins said on the morning television program AM that six people had died, and the police stated that they expect the death toll to be less than ten.

Given the danger of the roof collapsing, the hostel, which has 92 rooms, cannot yet be entered.

The fire broke out on the top floor of Loafer Lodge in the Newtown district of Wellington shortly after midnight, and its cause is still unknown.