'People being idiots' likely to blame for house blaze

An arson attack that caused flames to rip through roadworks signs, a Mercedes-Benz and damage the roof of a house could have proved fatal, police say.

Detectives are hunting one or more arsonists after yesterday's early-morning blaze at Hillcrest Ave on Auckland's North Shore.

No one was at the house at about 1am, but two dogs had to be rescued.

"It could have been really bad," said Detective Matt Laurenson, of the North Shore CIB. "It certainly put people's lives at risk."

He said neighbouring houses were very close to the blaze and at extreme risk. Plastic roadworks markers were set alight, and dry conditions plus a slight breeze carried the fire further.

"The hedging was dry because there has been no rain, and then [the fire] cut through into the carport," he said.

Thousands of dollars of damage had been done to the parked car, carport and roof of the house.

"The car was pretty nice and it's pretty damaged now."

Mr Laurenson said he did not believe the arsonists had intended the house to catch fire. "It is more like they were people being idiots."

Anyone who saw suspicious behaviour is urged to contact Mr Laurenson on (09)477 5027 or Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.