Repeated vandalism at Te Awamutu’s War Memorial Park has left community members and council staff frustrated and disappointed.
In the past six months a cabbage tree and oak tree has been cut down, rose plants have been ripped out and over the weekend, 40 teucrium hedge plants were torn out.
Park operations team leader Matt Johnston said his team had put a lot of time, effort and money into maintaining War Memorial Park.
The teucrium plants, that bordered the sunken cross, were planted in July last year and could not be replanted again until winter.
“It took the team three hours to plant the 40 teucrium plants which cost approximately $10 each, and that is not including the fertiliser and soil.
“The repeated vandalism is disheartening for our team, they take a lot of pride in their work, making sure the reserve looks great for our community and visitors”, said Johnston.
War Memorial Park is a dedicated reserve to men and women of the area who served during the Second World War and to modern day.
Te Awamutu Returned & Services Association executive member and Te Awamutu Ward Councillor Lou Brown said the acts of vandalism were demeaning to everyone - the community, men and women who have served our country, their families and council staff.
“People come to visit the park in memory of those who have served, so it is very upsetting to see the intentional damage to the space.”
Anyone who sees vandalism occurring is encouraged to contact the police.
