Arsonist trial starts in Auckland

The trial of a man accused of starting 15 fires around the Auckland CBD in the course of one night began today.

Fraser Herewini faces six charges of arson and nine of damaging property by fire, following his alleged fire-setting spree on the night of July 15, 2003.

Herewini denies the allegations.

Crown Prosecutor Todd Simmonds this morning outlined Herewini's alleged offending.

The at the Auckland District Court was told Herewini left the Auckland Central Police Station about 8.40pm on the 15th.

He is alleged to have then set fire to a car parked on the corner of Mayoral Dr and Greys Ave. From there, Mr Simmonds said, "Herewini moved around downtown Auckland, starting a total of 15 fires in a 14 hour period".

The jury will later this week be shown around the alleged fire scenes in central Auckland.

About 60 crown witnesses will be called in the course of the trial which is set down for 4 weeks before Judge Graeme Hubble.