Source: New Zealand Police
Hastings Police continue to appeal for information after a 47-year-old man has been charged in relation to seven alleged arson incidents this weekend.
On Saturday 15 August, Police were made aware of multiple arsons in the Hastings area between 2am and 3.15am.
These incidents occurred around the Hastings CBD and Akina residential areas.
Following further enquiries and information provided by the public, Police have charged the man in relation to seven alleged arson incidents. We would like to thank those who have provided information that has assisted in our investigation.
Police would now like to speak with anyone who went to the Common Room Bar on Heretaunga Street East between late Friday 14 August and 2am Saturday 15 August, as they may have information that can assist our enquiries.
We also ask those in the Hastings CBD, Hastings residential, and the Havelock North Community to review any CCTV footage they may have of their properties between 2am and 6am on Saturday 15 August.
If you see any suspicious activity, including a man of slim build wearing a long-sleeved black shirt, black pants, and dress shoes, please get in touch with us.
Hastings Police would also like to hear from anyone who believes the underside of their vehicle, a section of their property, or their rubbish bins may have been involved in an arson incident.
Information from the public is crucial in helping us determine the circumstances and timelines of these incidents.
The 47-year-old man has been remanded in custody, due to reappear in Hastings District Court on 8 September, facing multiple charges including four counts of wilfully setting fire to property and endangering life, two counts of arson, and attempted arson.
Further charges have not yet been ruled out.
If you have any information that can assist our investigation in relation to these matters, please contact Police online at 105.police.govt.nz or call 105, or you can head to the front counter at Hastings Police Station.
Please use the reference number 260815/7973.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/08/19/police-continue-to-appeal-for-information-from-the-public-following-series-of-alleged-arson-incidents-hastings/