Suspicious house fire in Napier, police investigating

The home damaged by fire in Maraenui. Photo / NZME

Police are investigating a suspicious house fire in Napier which caused extensive damage on Boxing Day.

Emergency services were contacted about 1.45am on Thursday about the house fire on Geddis Ave in Maraenui.

Fire and Emergency NZ arrived to find the fire “fully involved”.

Two fire trucks attended and had the blaze under control relatively quickly.

There were no injuries reported, police confirmed.

Internal damage to the home in Maraenui. Photo / NZME

Police were visible at the address later that morning.

“Hawke’s Bay police are investigating a suspicious fire at a residential address on Geddis Ave,” a police statement said.

“A scene guard was put in place overnight and police will be conducting a scene examination at the address today [Thursday], alongside Fire and Emergency New Zealand.”

The home, which is located down a driveway, appeared to be badly damaged internally by the fire.

A digger was also visible at the property.

• If anyone has information which could assist police, contact 105 and use event number P061072109. Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.