A Napier house has been destroyed and another damaged after candles started a living room fire.

A Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokesperson said crews were called to a Maraenui house fire about 5.50pm on Friday.

“Upon crews’ arrival the fire was well ablaze. Crews from Napier and Hastings worked to bring the fire in a single-storey building under control.”

The spokesperson said the fire was extinguished about 8.25pm.

“A neighbouring property was impacted by the fire with damage to an exterior wall and roof.

“Two other neighbouring properties were also evacuated due to smoke.

The spokesperson said smoke alarms alerted residents and an investigation found the fire was accidental, caused by candles.

“Fire and Emergency recommends having a working smoke alarm in every bedroom, hallway and living area.”

Napier senior station officer Dan Nesbit said the fire started in the living area.

“A candle was lit, and somehow that candle has started the fire.”

He said the intense fire spread to a neighbouring property, damaging an external wall and starting a small fire in the ceiling space.

“Because there was strong winds when the fire happened, it was blowing the smoke directly across to the next-door neighbour’s house and due to the smoke being high temperatures, it’s a thing that can happen.”

Nesbit said they used hoses to protect the other properties.

“By us doing that, although there was a small amount of damage, our actions probably limited more damage to the house.”

He described the house as a “total loss” and said there was “nothing salvageable” inside.

“Working smoke alarms alerted them early ... people couldn’t believe how fast the fire spread.”