Police have charged a man following a fire at a historical premises in Kerikeri.
At around 11.40pm on 4 September, emergency services were called to a report of fire at a café on Kerikeri Road, next to the historic Stone Store and Pioneer House.
Detective Senior Sergeant Chris Fouhy, Far North Investigations Manager, says the fire was extinguished by Fire and Emergency New Zealand and there were no reports of injury.
“The work of the local fire service has prevented the two historic buildings being damaged, however the café itself was significantly damaged.”
A short time later a further arson was called in on Landing Road, which involved a tree that had been set alight.
“Both fires were deemed suspicious and an investigation commenced,” Detective Senior Sergeant Fouhy says.
“Following an extensive investigation, which included important information from members of the public, Police identified the person responsible.”
On Thursday police charged a 19-year-old man with arson.
He will appear in Kaikohe District Court on 15 September.
Image credit: Guido Jansen
