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With New Zealand police now treating the fatal fire at a Wellington hostel as arson, former residents recall how they managed to escape the burning building and the stark conditions inside.
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If not for the courage of firefighters, Loafers Lodge death toll would have been higher.
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Residents have shared their harrowing tales of escape from the 94-room Loafers Lodge.
The 92-room hostel in Wellington provided accommodation for people including construction workers, hospital staff and those serving sentences in the community for minor crimes.
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They have spoken of the frightening moments they realised they needed to get out.