Arson attempt at Fraser Cove shop

A deliberate attempt to set a Tauranga store on fire was foiled by a call to the fire brigade.

The Greerton fire brigade was called to a small fire at the Fraser Cove shops at 3.49am this morning.

Bay of Plenty fire safety officer John Rewi said it appeared someone had tried to set the roller door at Cotton On alight.

"There was a bit of a black smudge on the roller door. The guys put out what was burning at the time."

Mr Rewi said it was definitely an arson attempt as an unknown object had been lit to try to set the roller door on fire.

Police are now investigating the fire.