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Nine ring barked Himalayan Oak at Hoddy Estuary Park as well as two further trees being cut down. Photo Tasman District Council.
"Tasman District Council Confronts Escalating Vandalism Threat"
Date: 7 February 2024
In a disheartening turn of events, Tasman's pristine green spaces are grappling with a surge in vandalism, as highlighted by the recent targeted destruction of nine Himalayan Oak trees in Hoddy Estuary Park. Planted by the community over 15 years ago, these trees fell victim to deliberate ring-barking, mirroring a wider trend observed across the district.
This incident not only robs Hoddy Estuary Park of its natural beauty but is part of a troubling pattern that extends to other cherished public areas, including Washbourn Gardens, White Gate Reserve, and Wakefield. Tasman's Reserves Staff and contractors, grappling with the aftermath, are now forced to address numerous incidents of theft and vandalism, necessitating a significant investment of time and resources.
Expressing frustration and disappointment, the Tasman District Council emphasises the illegal nature of these actions and the potential for prosecution if culprits are identified. The call to action implores residents to report any damage, urging a collaborative effort to curb these senseless acts that mar the community's enjoyment of its shared spaces.
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Smashed bollards at White Gate Reserve. Photo credit Tasman District Council.
In the past few days, additional incidents have been reported, further underscoring the severity of the situation. A soap dispenser and disability aid/handle were stolen from the new toilet in Wakefield (Whitby Green), while the old library in Motueka fell victim to vandalism with two front door windows smashed. These recent acts only strengthen the resolve of the community and the council to address and put an end to this destructive wave. For those with information, contacting the council at 03 543 8400 becomes a crucial step in identifying those responsible and preserving the integrity of Tasman's public spaces.
Press Release from Grant Reburn, Tasman District Council Reserves and Facilities Manager:
Hoddy Estuary Park tree damage underlines growing vandalism issue in Tasman
7 February, 2024
If you feel the need to damage property - take a breath, it's not yours. If you see damaged property – let us know.
We have recently had nine Himalayan Oak trees in Hoddy Estuary Park ring-barked, which appears to have been carried out with the intention of killing them, as well as two further trees being cut down in a separate area of the reserve.
The Himalayan Oaks are a particularly sad loss, given they were planted by the community back when the park was first opened, and they had been developing into beautiful trees.
The loss of more than 15 years’ worth of growth affects the overall beauty of the reserve and is disheartening for those who have given their time and energy over this period.
Unfortunately, this is an example of a wider trend that we are observing across the district, where members of the public are damaging exotic species in our green spaces
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Damage sustained to the toilet facilities at White Gate Reserve. Photo credit Tasman District Council.
| In the last two weeks, Reserves Staff and contractors have also had to deal with numerous incidents of theft and vandalism at other spaces – including Washbourn Gardens, White Gate Reserve and Wakefield. |
This wilful damage requires significant investment of time and money for repair or replacement and negatively affects how we manage these spaces.
These actions are illegal and could result in prosecution by the police if the culprits are identified.
If the culprits had an issue with the trees or facilities, a conversation with the council would have prevented it reaching this costly and unnecessary stage.
Instead, this takes up thousands of dollars and many staff and contractor hours that should be spent on projects and items that will enhance, rather than destroying community facilities.
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Smashed bollards at White Gate Reserve. Photo credit Tasman District Council.
We are frustrated and extremely disappointed that people have taken it upon themselves to cause damage in various forms - there is nothing accidental or naive about these actions and the actions of a few with obvious issues ruin the opportunity for everyone else to use and enjoy these spaces.
Please contact Tasman District Council on 03 543 8400 to report any damage or provide any information that could help us identify those responsible and reduce the incidence of vandalism taking place.
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| Damage sustained to the toilet facilities at White Gate Reserve. Photo credit Tasman District Council. |
Tasman District Council Communications.
Pigeon Post News, Richmond.
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