Info mounting on gun-toting vandals

Boundary Hut before the Labour Weekend attack. Photo from DOC.
Boundary Hut before the Labour Weekend attack. Photo from DOC.
The net is tightening on gun-toting vandals who extensively damaged a public hut in the Mavora Lakes over Labour Weekend.

Yesterday, the Department of Conservation and Te Anau police were pleased with the amount of information from the public following the vandalism of Boundary Hut, where at least $7500 of damage was done.

Sergeant Tod Hollebon, of Te Anau, said police were particularly interested in a green Mitsubishi L200 ute, with a couch on the back, and three male passengers.

The driver was described as having a ''blond mullet-style haircut''.

The Otago Daily Times reported earlier this month the vandals ripped fence posts out of the ground; the iconic entrance turnstile was removed and burnt; hut decking was torn up for firewood; and food was smeared through the hut's interior.

Most troubling, however, was the destruction of the toilet and water tanks, which were all shot at close range.

Sgt Hollebon said a range of quality information had been received, but police would welcome any further details.

Fiordland district conservation services manager Grant Tremain said the damage was the worst he had seen in 20 years. However, he was heartened by the ''clear passion'' the public had shown for the Mavora Lakes Park.

''The level of public support and assistance that has been shown in helping to try and identify the people who did this has been amazing.

''People clearly care very deeply about keeping Mavora Lakes Park a safe and family-friendly place to visit.

''It's such a shame that the antisocial behaviour of a few people has the potential to spoil everyone's enjoyment.''

Police are also looking for information relating to a blue Honda CRV involved in a single vehicle crash in the Mavora Lakes Park early on October 26.

Anyone with information about either incident should contact Te Anau Police on (03) 249-7600 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers, 0800 555-111.

Add a Comment

 

Advertisement

OUTSTREAM