Masterton church arson attacks

The story so far

Three other churches were targeted but did not catch fire, and the incidents also involved a funeral home and three other buildings.^{22, 24 Feb 2025} A man claimed responsibility online, and armed police cordoned off Mikimiki Road after finding a vehicle of interest, with the fires possibly targeting seven churches.^{23 Feb 2025} Police appealed for sightings of a green Ford Festiva, and an arrest warrant was later issued for a 44-year-old man.^{25, 26 Feb 2025} In mid-March, police were still searching for him, believing he is receiving help to evade arrest and is still in the Wairarapa area.^{13 Mar 2025}

Key moments

1. 22 Feb 2025Four Masterton churches damaged by suspicious early-morning fires on Saturday.
2. 23 Feb 2025Man claims responsibility online; armed police cordon Mikimiki Road.
3. 25 Feb 2025Police appeal for sightings of a green Ford Festiva.
4. 26 Feb 2025Arrest warrant issued for 44-year-old man over church arsons.
5. 13 Mar 2025Police still searching in March, believing man is receiving help.

Written from the stories below; each sentence links to its sources.