21 Mar 2024

Man charged after arsons in Papakura and Newmarket station

3:12 pm on 21 March 2024
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(File photo.) Photo: 123RF

A man has been charged over five arson attacks around Auckland from the middle of last year.

The fires were lit mainly around Papakura and at residential properties and started in July 2023.

One of the arsons was in public toilets at Newmarket train station last August.

Detective Senior Sergeant Simon Taylor of Counties Manukau South CIB said the fires caused considerable damage.

"One of the fires to a dwelling occurred while the elderly occupant was inside. Thankfully, a neighbour alerted them to the danger and they escaped without harm.

"The fire in Newmarket was to public toilets, which caused significant alarm being located within the train station on a Sunday afternoon."

A 33-year-old man is due to appear in Papakura District Court on charges of arson.