A man has been charged following a fire at a Kerikeri cafe located just metres away from New Zealand's oldest surviving building.
Emergency services were called to a report of fire at a café on Kerikeri Rd, next to the historic Stone Store and Pioneer House, on September 4.
The Stone Store, built between 1832 and 1836, is the country's oldest undamaged stone building. The Kerikeri Mission House, also known as Kemp House, was erected between 1821-1822 and is Aotearoa's oldest standing building.
"The work of the local fire service has prevented the two historic buildings being damaged, however the café itself was significantly damaged," Detective Senior Sergeant Chris Fouhy said.
No one was injured in the blaze.
A short time later, a further arson was called in on Landing Rd after a tree was set alight.
"Both fires were deemed suspicious and an investigation commenced," Fouhy said.
"Following an extensive investigation, which included important information from members of the public, police identified the person [believed to be] responsible."
A 19-year-old man was today charged with arson.
He will appear in Kaikohe District Court on September 15.
SHARE ME