A New Zealand woman caught up in a deadly attack at a hotel in Afghanistan has left the country.
Nine people, including two children, died when gunmen opened fire at the luxury Serena Hotel in the capital Kabul which has been targeted by the Taliban many times in the past.
Afghan policemen stand guard near the Serena Hotel. Photo: AFP
Handguns used by the attackers were displayed by officials. Photo: AFP
The teenage gunmen waited as diners gathered at the luxury hotel to celebrate Afghanistan's New Year's Eve before opening fire.
Officials say four teenagers evaded the hotel's tight security by hiding small guns in oversized shoes and pretending to be diners. After hiding in toilets for three hours, they emerged and began firing about 6pm (local time).
Afghanistan Government initially said a New Zealander was one of those killed, but New Zealand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade said the woman concerned was not hurt.
A ministry spokesperson said the New Zealander had received consular support and had left Afghanistan. She had requested privacy and asked that no more details about her be made public.
The attack, which has been claimed by the Taliban, comes amid increasing violence ahead of Afghanistan's elections next month.