The fires on 20 September are thought to have been lit intentionally. Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon
Police investigating suspicious fires lit at Albert Town near Wānaka last month are appealing for information from the public and video footage around the area.
Detective Phill Hamlin said the fires on 20 September were believed to have been lit intentionally.
"These fires were mere metres away from housing where people were at home and many were in bed. They have had to run from their homes," he said in a statement.
"Their lives and homes have been put at risk by these actions."
Significant damage was caused to telecommunications infrastructure with nearby cars and houses also at risk, he said.
Police want to hear from anybody who travelled through Albert Town on Alison Avenue or State Highway 6 between 10.00pm and midnight on 20 September if they have dash cam footage or those who have residential CCTV in the nearby area.
Police are also seeking any videos taken of the fires at any stage including when emergency services were in attendance.
Anyone with relevant information can call 105 quoting file number 250921/4784 or provide information anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
