KEY POINTS:
Three youths have been arrested and charged over the fire that destroyed a historic church in Palmerston North in October.
The fire destroyed the original 19th century All Saints church, which sat at the rear of the newer brick church on Church St and was used as a hall.
Detective Dave Wishnowsky said the youths, aged 16, 17 and 19, had been charged with arson and burglary.
They appeared in Palmerston North District Court and were granted bail to a later date.
He said the investigation was continuing and a fourth person of interest was yet to be interviewed.
"Information received very early in the investigation has proved vital to the arrests made," said Mr Wishnowsky.
"This is a great example of how the public's contribution can help resolve crime in Palmerston North."
The building had a Category 2 listing with the Historic Places Trust and the original part of it was built in 1875.
- NZPA
