A police investigation is continuing into what was initially suspected to be the arson of a rural dwelling near Thornton, outside Whakatane, on Wednesday.
The investigation took a twist in the early hours of Thursday morning when the person securing the scene was confronted and assaulted suffering minor injuries.
Police and Fire Safety investigators have now identified evidence indicating the dwelling has been used for the possible manufacture of methamphetamine.
Two local men, aged 32 and 30, have since been arrested on aggravated robbery charges relating to the assault and will appear in the Whakatane District Court today.
The investigation and examination of the scene is continuing today with the support of the Clan Lab Team and Fire Safety investigators.