Damage at the Whakanewha Regional Park. Photo: Supplied / Auckland Council
There has been a spike in vehicles tearing up sports fields and parks across Auckland, making them unusable and costing thousands in ratepayers' money.
Auckland Council said several sports fields have been targeted in the past month, with vandals in Manurewa and Ōrakei damaging grounds used by local clubs who play on the fields.
General manager of parks and community Facilities Taryn Crewe said it is deeply frustrating.
"It's disheartening to see behaviour that damages these spaces, especially when it means we have to divert funding from other projects-like planting, maintenance, or improving facilities-to cover repairs," she said.
Damage to the pitch at Mountfort Park. Photo: Supplied / Auckland Council
Crewe said most of the vandalism happened in the wetter winter months, when tracks and fields were more easily damaged, and quieter conditions gave irresponsible behaviour better cover.
The council also reported cases in local and regional parks where motorists were driving dangerously and at excessive speeds, with damage to bollards, chains and gates to restricted areas. Make-shift mountain jumps had also been made for bikes and scooters.
One ranger reported incidents happening every night over the past week, according to the council.
Damage to the pitch at Mountfort Park. Photo: Supplied / Auckland Council
Crewe said their teams took a lot of care in maintaining parks.
"We really appreciate the community's support - whether that's reporting issues or just helping keep an eye out," she said.
"When we all play a part, our parks thrive."
Damage at the Whakanewha Regional Park. Photo: Supplied / Auckland Council
Auckland Council encouraged anyone who spotted illegal activity in parks and open spaces to report it to police, and to report any damage on walking tracks, fields and parks to the council.
Police have been approached for comment.
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