Police are investigating a suspicious fire at a Hastings house where a woman suffered a fatal assault earlier this month.

Emergency services were called to the vacant Huia Street house just before 9pm yesterday.

Police said they were guarding the property following the assault two weeks ago.

A 26-year-old man has been arrested in relation to the woman's death.

A fire investigator is at the scene to determine the cause of the fire, which caused extensive damage.

Police ask anyone with information to contact them on 105 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.