Serial arsonist could be responsible for Feilding fire

An unexplained fire in Feilding early this morning could be the work of a serial arsonist, police say.

Wilkes Trading company, a skin and hide merchants in South Street, was extensively damaged in the 2am blaze.

Detective David Burmeister said police were investigating whether the same person was behind that blaze and several other suspicious fires in Feilding in recent months, with commercial properties and a church targeted.

"It is too early to say whether this is suspicious or linked to the other fires but we have to consider that possibility," Mr Burmeister said.

"Feilding is a close knit community and we need their help in identifying the person or people responsible for the fires that have been occurring before more damage is caused or someone loses a life."

Police want to hear from any witnesses who saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area between 2am and 2.30am.

Anyone with information should contact police.

- NZPA