Arsonist strikes probation building

A Napier building destined to become a probation centre was struck by an arsonist overnight.

The blaze at the former Faith City Assembly of God Church on Taradale Rd was discovered by a security guard about 1.35am, and was extinguished by firefighters shortly after 2am.

Napier Senior Sergeant Dan Foley said it appeared a rear security grate to a toilet window had been removed and the window was smashed to gain entry.

Fire safety investigators reported an obvious smell of petrol throughout the building.

The building, which was no longer in use, suffered moderate damage inside, and it was only the early detection of the fire that prevented it from burning to the ground, Mr Foley said.

The site had been the centre of public debate after the Corrections Department announced plans to establish it as a Probation and Psychological Service Centre, and Mr Foley said the arson was possibly linked to that.

Investigators were at the scene.

- NZPA