8:41am

An increase in vandalism in South Wairarapa has seen road signs flattened, graffiti, and fly tipping.


By Sue Teodoro, Local Democracy Reporter


The issue was discussed at last week's South Wairarapa District Council infrastructure committee meeting.


"I heard the other day that we had a couple of signs destroyed on Underhill Rd," councillor Colin Olds said at the meeting.


"Not a couple," a council staff member replied.


"We put up a whole lot of signs on Friday, and they were all knocked down by Monday."


The expectation was for more destruction, as more signs were erected.


Councillor Aidan Ellims advocated for taking a hard line on offenders.


"If we've got names and addresses, we should be following through to hold
those people to account," he said.


"They are responsible for adding extra costs to our fellow ratepayers."


James O'Connor, South Wairarapa District Council infrastructure and community operations group manager, confirmed after the meeting the council had seen a recent uptick in that type of antisocial behaviour, including illegal
dumping, skidding on roads, and damage to road signs.

"In cases of illegal dumping, our officers inspect materials for any identifying information that may support enforcement action.


"Instances of vandalism that we become aware of are reported to police to assist in their enquiries."


O'Connor described it as "incredibly disappointing", as well as contributing
to mounting council expenditure.


"It places an unnecessary cost on our community. For example, replacing the recently vandalised new 60km/h speed signs on Underhill Rd in Featherston
alone will cost ratepayers $600."


He said the council would appreciate the public's help in reporting incidents like this.


"Information and evidence from the community are essential in holding those responsible to account. Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact the council on 06 306 9611 or report it Police on 105."


The district is no stranger to flytipping, with a large quantity of trash dumped down the side of a hill in Longbush Rd near Martinborough in January.


Trash dumped illegally down a hillside on Longbush Rd in January.

Last year an expensive fly tipping clean-up in the district cost about $145,000. Initial estimates on that occasion had come in around $195,000
after several years' of illegal fly-tipping was discovered down a bank near Cape Palliser Rd.

The council has erected signs near trouble spots, warning people the could
face prosecution and fines of up to $5000 if caught flytipping.


LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air

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