Police are investigating after an arson at Kawerau South School overnight.

Part of the wooden structure of the school's playground has been destroyed by the fire early on Saturday morning.

"At about 12.10am Police were notified that a fire had cause significant damage to a portion of the school’s playground," says a Police spokesperson.

Police are investigating following the arson at Kawerau South School early on Saturday morning. Photo: Carole Meredith.

Students started Term One at the school which is located on Onslaw Street, Kawerau on January 31.

The school has a roll of around 330 pupils from Year 1 to 6.

Police say enquiries to locate CCTV footage are ongoing.

Part of the wooden structure has been destroyed by the fire early Saturday morning. Photo: Carole Meredith.

"We would ask anyone with information or who witnessed any person or people acting suspiciously in the area to contact Police.

"You can contact us by calling 105 quoting job number: P057731617.

Information can also be reported anonymously by contacting Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

The fire to the playground came only days after children returned from school holidays and were welcomed back for Term One of the new year at Kawerau South School. Photo: Carole Meredith.

The fire has significantly damaged one end of the school playground at Kawerau South School. Photo: Carole Meredith.

The damaged Kawerau South School playground following a fire on Friday night. Photo: Carole Meredith.