Police investigating the arson have released a photograph of a man seen entering the property before the fire.
A blaze engulfed a shed on a Murray St property early on Monday evening.
The property is home to a Syrian refugee family who have been subject to a series of attacks, including smashed windows and eggs thrown at the house, Stuff has reported.
A member of the family has also been abused for wearing her headdress. She says her phone was stolen and thrown away, and she was told to "leave the country".
It is believed the group responsible for the attacks has grown to include adults as well as children.
The former refugee says these attacks are "hate crimes" directed at him and his family. He says his kids "don’t want to walk outside".
The man in the photograph was seen entering the property two evenings prior to the arson, at around 12.50am on July 2, police said
"We know the image isn’t the best quality, but we’re hoping someone will recognise the clothing and be able to assist us," police said.
Anyone who can help can get in touch via the police 105 phone service or online at https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105, using Update My Report. Reference file number 230704/6175.
Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
- Additional reporting NZ Herald
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