Rural petrol station razed in early morning fire

The petrol station at Mangakino is the second in the area to burn in seven months. Picture / Supplied

A suspicious blaze razed the Mangakino service station yesterday morning.

It was the second service station in the area in seven months to burn - in July arson destroyed the Whakamaru petrol Alley.

But police said it was too early to establish a link between the two fires.

Detective Senior Sergeant Todd Pearce of Taupo CIB said the intensity of yesterday's 3am blaze at Jas Kelly Motors, on the corner of State Highway 30 and Waipapa Rd, damaged the workshop and garage extensively.

Police and fire service investigators would start a scene examination as soon as possible.

Mr Pearce said until the outcome was known the fire would be treated as suspicious.

Police want to hear from anyone who heard or saw suspicious activity near the service station on Monday night or who may have information about how the fire started and who might be responsible for it.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Senior Sergeant Pearce at Taupo Police on (07) 377 0508, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.