Three boys set fire in Invercargill

Three boys aged between 11 and 14 have been referred to Youth Aid after a large tree was deliberately set on fire in Invercargill.

Emergency services were called to the fire at the Elles Road skate park about 8.30pm yesterday, and the blaze was extinguished a short time later.

Senior Sergeant Maggie Windle said three juveniles were seen lighting the fire by a member of the public who reported it to police.

A 14-year-old, 13-year-old and 11-year-old were apprehended by police and they have been referred to the Youth Aid section.

Police thanked the public for their help in apprehending the boys, and early intervention meant the fire was not able to take hold underneath the large tree on the park.

It was not known at this stage if this latest incident was related to a spate of fires in Invercargill city recently and inquiries would continue, Ms Windle said.