Auckland Council is asking for public help after a spate of thefts, and vandalism to public art pieces across the region.
Damage to the Valkyrie Fountain in Pukekawa Auckland Domain in May (left) and the fountain prior to being damaged. Photo: Auckland Council
In the last month, five pieces have been damaged, including Francis Upritchard's Loafers, The Five Rams in Myers Park and the Matakana War Memorial.
The bronze figurine and base from the Valkyrie Fountain in Auckland Domain were stolen with its supporting marble pillar severely damaged.
The Ōwairaka - Statue of a cloaked woman by Christine Hellyar was damaged beyond repair and will need to be removed from the Alie Wylie Reserve, the council said.
Public art manager Hayley Wolters said it was disappointing to see the blatant disregard for public property.
"It's really important to remember that our public spaces should be able to be enjoyed by Aucklanders, and unfortunately vandalism takes away from that both from an expense, a resource perspective."
She said the public could help by contacting police if they witnessed any vandalism acts.
"Following two years of Covid-19 disruptions, the council's budgets are already under pressure, and any costs to repair or replace artworks are adding further strain and diverting investment away from other important areas," Wolters said in a statement.
The council's parks, arts, community and events committee chair councillor Alf Filipaina said it must stop.
"It is beyond frustrating that these incidents keep happening, and that those committing these acts have no pride in their city, or regard for their fellow Aucklanders," Filipaina said in a statement on the council's Our Auckland website.
"We are blessed to have unique art pieces across the region that we can visit freely. This is not a privilege enjoyed in other places, and it upsets me that these opportunities are not only being taken for granted by some, but that through these mindless acts, they are also being taken away from those who would appreciate them."
Graffiti levels rising
Auckland Council manager business delivery Grant Muir said graffiti levels were increasing across the region and while it prioritised the quick removal of graffiti this had been impacted due to Covid-19 staff shortages.
"Over the past year or two, we have seen an increase in graffiti incidents, which can partially be attributed to periods of L4 [level four] lockdown, during which only offensive graffiti could be removed as an essential service," Grant said in a statement.
"This caused a build-up of graffiti and meant that our service providers were dealing with backlogs when we returned to full-service levels."
Muir advised people to ensure graffiti is removed promptly since the vandals can interpret its non-removal "as tacit approval".
In this financial year to date, there has been over 66,000 reports of graffiti across the region, with 2117 requests for service made to the council. In the last financial year, there were just over 70,000 reported incidents, but in comparison, only 1375 requests for service.