A house fire in Edendale on Friday night is being treated as arson, with police appealing for witnesses to come forward.

A man and his two-year-old son were at home at the time but fortunately were able to escape uninjured.

Detective Chris Lucy said emergency services were called to the fire at a property on Seaward Road shortly after 1am yesterday (Saturday, June 29).

The property was well ablaze when firefighters arrived.

The house has extensive damage and Mr Lucy said police were treating the fire as arson.

Anyone who was in the area at the time of the fire is urged to contact Detective Chris Lucy on 03 211 0400.

Information can also be passed on anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.