Suspicious barn fire in Tauranga

The remains of the barn on Glue Pot Rd. Photo/Supplied

Two teenagers have been arrested after an Oropi barn was destroyed by arson.

During the weekend police investigated the cause of the blaze, which broke out in a barn on Glue Pot Rd about 5.30pm on Friday.

A police spokeswoman said the barn contained 1400 hay bales valued at $20,000.

Senior firefighter Steven Opie said because the barn was full of hay the decision was made to let it burn out. Firefighters at the scene worked to stop the fire from spreading to neighbouring buildings and trees.

Three fire trucks and a tanker were called to the property.

He said the fire was mostly out by 10pm but a crew remained there until 1pm on Saturday.

Then firefighters spread out the remaining hay to make sure the fire was completely out.

People were at home on the property when the fire started.

Two 15-year-olds were apprehended and have been referred to youth aid.