The fire at a Bay of Plenty Police station is now being treated as arson.

An investigation is being carried out following a fire at the Taneatua Police Station.

The incident was reported around 10.45pm on Tuesday and the fire was well involved when emergency services arrived.

The damage to the station is extensive and a scene examination was undertaken yesterday.

'The sole-charge police officer who lives next to the station was not in any danger from the fire, but is naturally devastated that this could happen in his town,” says Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Standen.

'Police's initial priority is to ensure the continued service to the local community, and we are currently considering options to relocate the officer in the short term.”

Anyone with information that may assist this investigation is urged to call police on 07 308 5255 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.