Ruapehu arson clues key to case - police

A boot print found near the scene of the Ruapehu ski field arson may hold the key to finding who started the fires, police say.

The fires were deliberately lit on February 13 and destroyed the Knoll Ridge Chalet, which housed a cafe and shops, a workshop with three $500,000 snow groomers inside and a chairlift building.

A number of exhibits found at the scene have been sent to ESR for fingerprinting, Detective Chris Chapman said.

One of the tests being carried out is a tool match to help police find out what tools were used to break into the buildings.

Fingerprint results were expected back within a week, although ESR results might take longer, Mr Chapman said.

"We are looking forward to receiving some results back and are hopeful it will move us even further forward. It is fair to say that we do have some persons of interest and are increasingly confident that we will identify those responsible."

Police were also interested in a boot print found near the scene. It was believed to be a match for a Hi-Tech hiking boot, possibly the Arusha or Largo 2 model, and police wanted to hear from anyone who had found a boot or pair of boots matching this description in the Taupo, Turangi or Ruapehu areas.

They wanted to hear from anyone who owned a pair of boots matching that description, which were stolen before the fires.

- NZPA