Update Waikato church fire

An investigation into a fire that destroyed a small rural church west of Hamilton early yesterday morning is continuing with the cause of the blaze yet to be established.

Detective Sergeant Daryl Smith of the Hamilton CIB said Police would return to the scene of the fire, at the Ngahinapouri Community Church today, to continue area enquiries.

"As part of these enquiries a leaflet drop is planned for the local community appealing for information on any suspicious activity.

"As is the case with such incidents the fire will continue to be treated as suspicious until such time as evidence comes to light to indicate to the contrary."

Mr Smith said there was nothing to suggest yesterday's fire was linked to last month's Church fire at Paterangi or a fire at a service station at Whakamaru earlier yesterday however Police were keeping an open mind and if anyone had any information on any of these fires he urged them to contact Police.

Alternatively people could leave information anonymously with Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.