The fire is set in the grounds of Hawera Intermediate School and the Fire Service is currently working at the scene of the school to make the area safe.

Senior Sergeant Kyle Davie from Hawera Police says, 'Police is currently keeping a cordon at the scene and once the fire has been put out and the area made safe, we will begin our investigation into what may have occurred. Until then we cannot comment.

"We will certainly be actively working towards identifying who or what is responsible for the fire as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information in relation to the fire is urged to provide information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Source: New Zealand Police.