A suspicious fire which damaged two businesses in Wānaka’s Pembroke Mall on Sunday evening (September 22) is now under police investigation.

A Fire and Emergency NZ (FENZ) spokesperson told the Wānaka App the fire began in a rubbish bin and spread to two structures.

The affected businesses were long-standing ski and bike rental Green Toad and sushi takeaway Sushi Mii.

Charred skis at Green Toad.

Local firefighters extinguished the blaze which had moved into the roof space of the adjoined buildings.

FENZ said a fire investigator deemed the fire to be suspicious and referred it to police.

Senior Sergeant Fiona Roberts confirmed police are investigating the cause of the fire.

"At this early stage we can't provide a lot of commentary other than it is unexplained and being investigated by Wanaka CIB," Fiona said.

PHOTOS: Wānaka App