Police told Hawke’s Bay Today there’s an investigation under way into the three fires in the Poukawa area on February 23.
“Initial inquiries have determined that these are suspicious. The three fires were on Te Mahanga Rd, the Pekapeka Wetland and State Highway 2 near Poukawa Rd, between 3am and 3.30am,” they said.
On social media, the community has reacted with frustration, with some calling for better protection of a site that carries so many stories.
In 2015, they held a family reunion at the site, reconnecting with their roots and passing on stories to younger generations.
Karaitiana's family reunion at the iconic Poukawa house in 2015.
Now, at 86, he visited the house again on Saturday, “shocked” by what he saw.
“For me, it’s the end of an era, where we grew up, where we believe formed part of what we are today.”
His daughter, Donna Karaitiana, who was also with him during the latest visit, said the house was built from native timber, one of the reasons for its endurance.
“That’s why it’s still standing despite everything,” she said.
“It’s quite sad, but it still stands.”
Before leaving, she picked up a piece of brick from the fireplace, lying away from the house.
“I thought ‘Oh! This must be for me’. So, I brought it home.”
From previous visits, her brother had also taken some timber from the house and repurposed it into their father’s home, a handrail by the steps.
“I think I’ve got the last bit before it goes down,” she said.