A South Canterbury man has been arrested and charged following two arsons on consecutive days near Alexandra last week.

Police said the fires occurred on August 13 and 14, in Galloway, 7km east of Alexandra.

A 38-year old man has been charged with arson, burglary, and making false statements to police.

The first fire was in an unoccupied homestead followed by a blaze at an occupied workers' accommodation the next day.

"No-one was injured and limited damage was done."

Detective Sergeant Derek Shaw, of Central Otago, said there had been a "threat of fire" over the last six months due to the extreme fire risk in the area, which had been the biggest concern of the alleged offending.

"The alleged offending has had the Galloway community on edge for months so this arrest has brought a degree of relief to the families in the area,” Det Sgt Shaw said.

Police have not ruled out further charges.

The man is due to appear in the Alexandra District Court tomorrow.