27 November 2023

Media: Local Democracy Reporter

Topic: Dangerous building notice issued to Spa Lodge

Enquiry

Can I please have the report into the building that the council requested? What advice did FENZ provide the council?

Response

We informed the reporter the request would be processed via the formal LGOIMA (Local Government Information and Meetings Act) process as it was possible some content might need to be redacted.

However, a copy of the report’s conclusion was supplied to the reporter, as follows:

Conclusion

I consider there is an extremely high fire risk to occupants in this building day or night, given the high risk/needs of the clientele, the inoperable handheld firefighting equipment, inadequate fire alarm system and the known behaviour of these occupants during a fire. I therefore consider that in the event of fire, injury, or death to any persons in the building or to persons on other property is likely. I note that the decision as to whether the building is dangerous and what if any, action to take in relation to that is ultimately a decision for the Rotorua Lakes Council.

I am concerned that a fire will grow out of control before anyone notices it, leaving occupants little time to escape. The risk is heightened given the owner and management’s apparent disregard for fire safety legislation. The building does not have a currently approved evacuation scheme and procedure, and this will pose risks to occupants’ day or night.