A woman's been charged with lighting the fire, that destroyed the old Seaview Hospital and asylum in Hokitika

The complex was consumed in a massive fire in the early hours of the morning last month.

Police say it took firefighters the best part of two days to put out the blaze and for a scene examination to take place.

They say a 42-year old women was arrested on Wednesday, following officers searching a local address.

She faces a charge of arson and has been bailed to reappear at the Greymouth District Court next Wednesday.