Wanganui family flee burning home

A family of four fled their Wanganui home after their house caught fire and police believe it was deliberately lit.

Detective Constable Andrew Buchanan said the two adults and their children had a lucky escape.

He said a car in the garage was set on fire at about 5.50am yesterday while the family slept.

Mr Buchanan said a neighbour raised the alarm and the family escaped unscathed.

He said the house and two cars were damaged by the fire.

A 50 year-old woman from Wanganui was arrested yesterday afternoon and has been charged with arson.

She will appear in the Wanganui District Court today.

Mr Buchanan said anyone who saw anything suspicious in the Tainui St area should contact him on 06 349 0638.