Fire safety crews are investigating a suspicious blaze in the Christchurch suburb of Halswell.
Southern fire communications spokeswoman Lyn Crosson said the fire, on Kennedys Bush Rd, was reported just after 12am.
No one was in the property as the house was being renovated at the time, she said.
Two fire engines responded to the fire, which was subsequently brought under control before creating any major damage, Ms Crosson said.
"It didn't get out of control or anything like that."
