Family’s home gutted by fire after burglary

A Whanganui family's home was ravaged by a fire today in what appears to be a botched burglary.

Police say the incident a sad reminder of the importance of home security.

Just months after moving in, and two days before Christmas, the home was gutted as the family went to the beach. Christmas presents were found dumped in a rubbish bag on the lawn, pointing to a botched burglary.

Detective Sergeant Philip Taylor of the Whanganui police says the property at the address was scattered.

"On arrival it's become clear that this fire is suspicious in its nature and that there's been a bit of a break-in at the address."

3 News understands the British family left home just after 8am, and within minutes it was up in smoke.

Senior Station Officer Bryce Coneybeer says by the time the crew arrived, the fire in the old villa was "well-established".

"Fortunately [presents] weren't all burnt, they were one of the few things in the house that weren't damaged."

The family hadn't lived there long and it's the second time they've been victims of a fire - their previous home caught fire through an electrical fault.

Authorities say at this time of year, whether or not if it was the case here, home security is crucial.

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Family's home gutted by fire after burglary