Arsonist suspected over fires

Nelson police are appealing for information as they investigate two suspicious fires that damaged toilets on the grounds of Broadgreen Historic House and Tahunanui Beach.

Detective Jonathan Evans said the fires last week were not large but had caused extensive smoke damage that would probably mean both toilet cubicles would have to be gutted.

‘‘It’s a large cost to fix that,’’ he said.

Police believed the two fires were connected because of the way they were started. Evans declined to reveal the method used.

The first fire on the grounds of Broadgreen Historic House was reported on June 15. It damaged one of two unisex toilet cubicles, which remained closed this week.

Police would like to hear from anyone with ‘‘anything of note’’, particularly related to the period between June 14 and 15.

The second fire happened last Friday afternoon at the Tahunanui Beach men’s toilet on the edge of the sports field.

Evans said it appeared there were many people in the area when firefighters arrived to extinguish the blaze. Nelson firefighters were called out just after 4.15pm.

Police would like to hear from anyone with information, particularly related to the period between 4pm and 4.30pm last Friday.

Anyone with information could email Jonathan.Evans@police.govt. nz or call 105 and quote file number 200619/4311. They could also provide information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.