Dunedin police are investigating a burglary and arson at a bakery in the western part of the city early today.
Emergency services were called to Bakers Dozen in the Mornington Shops on Longwood Ave by people who saw smoke coming from the building at 1.35am.
A scene examination by the Fire Service and police found the fire was deliberately lit and that a burglary had also taken place.
The fire could have affected a large number of shops if it hadn't been spotted, Dunedin Detective Sergeant Brett Roberts said.
The bakery was "slightly damaged" but the cleanup would be extensive.
NZPA