Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon
The man who died in a house fire at an orchard in Riwaka, north of Motueka, was an RSE worker.
Heywood Orchards general manager Justin Wehner has confirmed the man was one of their employees.
He said the fire occurred at its Riwaka property in Dehra Doon Road on Sunday morning.
"Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the family, friends and co-workers at this difficult time."
Wehner said police and Fire and Emergency New Zealand were investigating the cause of the fire and while the investigations were ongoing, he was unable to make any further comments.
"We are providing support to our staff and will cooperate fully with the authorities."
Fire and Emergency said it received multiple calls about the fire on Sunday morning and sent fire engines and tankers from Motueka, Māpua, Nelson, Kaiteriteri and Tasman.
A single-storey dwelling around 10 metres by 10 metres in size was fully alight when fire crews arrived, with one person unaccounted for.
The man's body was found after the fire was put out.
Police and fire investigators were at the scene on Monday and enquiries into the cause of the fire are ongoing.
The death will be referred to the coroner.
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