Before and after thieves targeted the valuable artwork at Auckland's Botanic Gardens. Photo: Supplied
A bronze sculpture worth $50,000 has been vandalised and partially stolen from Auckland's Botanic Gardens.
The solar-powered water feature, called Reservoirs, had bronze pieces and copper piping taken off it by thieves overnight in late December, an Auckland Council statement said.
The sculpture was created by Richard Mathieson for an exhibition and later purchased by Friends of the Auckland Botanic Gardens as a gift to Auckland.
It was the third attack against the gardens in a month, with bronze plaques, and the internal fittings of a building being stolen earlier, the statement said.
Visitor services manager Micheline Newton said they found heavier bronze pieces stashed in foliage nearby.
Remaining pieces of the sculpture were found stashed in plants. Photo: SUPPLIED
"On Saturday [31 December], we found seven heavier pieces stashed in foliage nearby. We think whoever targeted this artwork may have intended [on] returning the following night to take these large pieces as well.
"It's disappointing, given all the hard work staff dedicate to ensure these facilities are maintained to such a high standard and our visitors have an exceptional experience.
"If you see suspicious behaviour on site, please inform our staff immediately."
Friends of the Auckland Botanic Gardens president Viv Canham said it would cost thousands to restore the sculpture.
"Many Aucklanders have had the privilege of listening to water flow down the curved pools, made with sand moulds using a traditional bronze casting method," Canham said.
"It's an incredibly saddening loss - Aucklanders and visitors to our city will miss out, while staff at the gardens have been dealt yet another blow."
Anyone with information about the theft and vandalism was asked to call the gardens on 09 267 1457 or Auckland Council if after hours on 09 301 0101.