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Four have been damaged in suspicious blazes, overnight, while three others also appear to have been targeted.

The damage to some of the churches has been described as “significant”, with police now investigating and standing guard at the buildings.

Up to 12 trucks earlier rushed to fight the fires that all started between 4.25am and 4.35am, a Fenz spokesperson said.

The churches are: Anglican Church Of The Epiphany, St Patrick’s Catholic Church Masterton, Masterton Baptist Church and Equippers Church Masterton.

Damage to the ranged from moderate to significant, Fenz said.

It could also have been worse given other churches were also targets, police said.

“Police have undertaken checks at other churches in the town this morning and have located evidence to suggest three further churches were targeted but did not catch alight,” police said.

Police remain at the fire scenes this morning, alongside Fire and Emergency teams.

“Officers will also be conducting reassurance patrols, including in nearby towns Featherston and Carterton,” police said.

They asked for anyone with information that could assist them to please contact Police via 105.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

Fire and Emergency NZ said it sent fire crews from across the Wairarapa region and from as far away as Avalon Station to battle the blazes.