Waipawa fires: Police charge three men with arson after fireworks allegedly shot out car window

Three men have been arrested and are facing arson charges after three large fires in Waipawa, Central Hawke's Bay.

Three men have been arrested and charged with arson after three large vegetation fires in the Central Hawke’s Bay settlement of Waipawa this month.

The 23-year-olds were arrested on Friday after weeks of inquiries into the fires, which broke out about 11.30pm on September 7.

It was reported that fireworks were allegedly seen being shot out of a vehicle’s window as it drove along Hautope Rd.

Three significant fires were sparked as a result, and flames were fanned by strong winds.

At the time, police found a vehicle and two young males at the end of Hautope Rd, and also discovered unsecured firearms.

A second vehicle was stopped on Hautope Rd and the driver was processed for drink driving.

Police said the fires had the potential to cause injury and widespread damage.

They thanked the quick-thinking member of the public who raised the alarm and prevented the situation from getting any worse.

The three men charged with arson are due to appear in the Hastings District Court tomorrow.