A ceiling was set on fire and a car damaged by marine flares in incidents being investigated by Oamaru police. The two incidents in Hampden are believed to be related, Detective Kevin Kirkman said. Officers called to a house on Chelmsford Street at around 11.50pm on Tuesday found the ceiling on fire. "We also believe a second flare has been launched, landing on a vehicle parked on Chelmsford Street causing damage to the vehicle." "We would like to hear from anyone in the wider Chelmsford Street, Derby Street, Nottingham Street, Stafford Street, and Durham Street areas," he said.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 11, 2026 21:33 UTC