Police investigate series of Howick arson attacks

Recent hot, dry conditions mean that fires which are deliberately lit have the potential to spread to nearby properties, putting lives at risk.

Police in Counties Manukau East are investigating a spate of arson attacks carried out in the East Auckland area since the beginning of 2015.

Detective Sergeant Glenn Wilkinson of Ormiston CIB says that 11 scrub fires have been lit in the Howick area since January.

"These have occurred in local reserves and children's play areas, usually bordering residential houses," says Detective Sergeant Wilkinson.

"On each occasion they have been set between 6pm and 11pm."

Police note that the Fire Service indicates that there has been an increase in small arsons across the District, however the East Auckland area including Pigeon Mountain, Bucklands Beach and Musick Point have seen a particular increase.

"Recent hot and dry conditions means that these fires have the potential to spread to the nearby residential housing, which is putting lives and properties at risk. We ask that anyone who knows anything about these incidents or might know who is responsible please contact Police."

Police encourage members of the public to always call 111 when suspicious behaviour is noticed, particular around reserves and playgrounds.

Anyone who has information about the fires is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Glenn Wilkinson on 09 213 9000.

To provide information anonymously please contact the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.