Police are currently onsite at the scene of a suspicious house fire in Inga Road, Milford.
Emergency services were alerted at 5.40pm this evening, after smoke was seen coming from a garage at the address and a man was seen moving pots and pans in an agitated state. The man was aggressive towards emergency services and refused to come out of the house.
Police arrived and the man attempted to flee, but was chased by officers and arrested.
The attending Police officers, as well as a member of the public who tried to assist with the fire, have had to be decontaminated using a specialist Fire Service decontamination unit.
The arrested man has burns to his hands and arms and has been taken to North Shore Hospital for treatment.
A dog at the property is unwell and has been taken by Animal Control for treatment.
The Police clan lab team are on their way to the scene, which will remain under Police guard overnight.
It is too early at this stage to say what charges the man could face and a further update is expected to be provided tomorrow after 9.30am, after the scene has been examined.
ENDS
Beth Bates/NZ Police