Suspicious fire at marae

Tauranga Police are investigating a suspicious fire which occurred in Tareha Lane in Te Maunga last night (Tuesday, 27 January).

The fire was noticed by local residents just after 11pm and a number of fire appliances attended and put out the fire.

As a result of the fire, extensive damage was caused to a wooden deck as well as the side of an administration building on the Tamapahore Marae.

Police detectives and fire investigators from the New Zealand Fire Service have been involved in conducting a scene examination this morning.

Until forensic testing is completed, police are unable to say exactly what caused the fire, however it is being treated as suspicious.

Detective Sergeant Alan Kingsbury said that police were interested in hearing from anybody who was in the area at the time and who may have seen suspicious behaviour.

He further stated that it is likely that people in the community will know who was responsible.

Detective Sergeant Alan Kingsbury said that it was too early to say whether or not the fire was connected to recent fires which have occurred in the Papamoa area.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Tauranga Police on 07 577 4300.

Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

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