The Kiwi Ferns have been dealt an off-field blow on the eve of their Rugby World Cup campaign, with half the team losing their training kit and personal belongings to smoke damage at their training facility.
Nobody was present during the time the incident occurred and the cause of the fire is yet to be determined.
The NZ women are rounding out preparations for their tournament opener against France at York on Thursday (NZ time).
"This was an unfortunate incident, but the problem was quickly dealt with and the training ground are in the process of bringing facilities back online," said NZ Rugby League chief executive Greg Peters.
"No outdoor facilities have been affected and the staff at the training ground have been exceptional in supporting us.
"In the meantime, our main priority is the Ferns' wellbeing and ensuring the team is supported through this."
Head coach Ricky Henry describes it as a "freak accident", which left many of the players without mobile phones, but he insists the team will have no problem putting the ordeal behind them to focus on their Cup opener against the French.
"It's been tough for the girls," said Henry. "Some have gone well over 24 hours without being able to contact loved ones, unless through a staff member's phone.
"Sometimes these freak accidents happen and this one was out of anyone's control.
"NZRL are working to replace the damage and, as a team, we will rally together, support each other and focus on what's ahead."
