Continual damage to signage at Mahia is costing ratepayers thousands of dollars a year.

Recently signs relating to Freedom Camping were damaged, and in some cases destroyed and completely taken away.

Wairoa District Council chief executive Steven May said the vandalism is just senseless and is costing all ratepayers. We will be reporting all vandalism incidents to the Police.

“Over the last three years vandalism and removal of signs has intensified, and we estimate the damage to signage at Mahia over the past four years is around $10,000.

“Council has Government legislated obligations to advise the public of Freedom Camping, dogs on a leash, alcohol bans etc. These signs are designed to inform people to keep them safe and up to date with the requirements.

“Damaging and destroying the signs is just a total waste of money.

“Damage zones have included Ormond Drive, Taylors Beach and Oraka with wooden and metal signs are targeted with the some completely taken away and others damaged and left nearby.”

Mr May said Pohutakawa Drive is the only area not targeted, simply due to locals being vigilant.

“We are appealing to local people to please be vigilant and if you see anyone damaging signs at Mahia, or anywhere in the district, to please contact the Police.

“Being watchful and reporting any incident is the only way we can get on top of this.”

“Council knows that not everybody agrees with Freedom Camping and perhaps this is one way of demonstrating this opinion. However, all it is really doing is costing our local district thousands of dollars which could be spent on other worthwhile projects.”

31 August 2020

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