Ohiwa vandalism putting people at risk

Thursday 16 August 2007

Ohiwa Harbour’s users are being put at unnecessary risk by repeated attacks on signs and buoys.

Environment Bay of Plenty harbour master Brian Spake says the actions are deliberate, and unless they stop will result in a serious accident.

“The latest attack involved a person or people sawing the posts of a sign just above ground level and dumping it, possibly in the harbour where we’re unlikely to find it. This sign clearly showed harbour users where the waterskiing and jet skiing areas in the harbour are, and what rules apply to them.”

Mr Spake says it’s not an isolated incident, and he’s often called to replace and retrieve buoys that have been removed from their moorings.

“It’s just one in an increasing number of acts of vandalism. I’m frequently rescuing buoys that have been dragged out of position or had their lines cut and having to replace them.”

These buoys show users where the channels are in the harbour and where water ski and jet ski areas are.

“It’s creating an incredibly dangerous situation. Without them we’re likely to end up with an accident on our hands because boaties are more likely to get stuck on a sandbank or in shallow water.”

These actions are an offence under the Regional Navigation and Safety Bylaws and anyone found breaking them can be prosecuted.

“It’s costing the ratepayer money not only to replace the signs and lost buoys, but also because of the time involved in fixing the vandalism. These water ski and jet ski areas were created after public consultation and are now included in the bylaws.

“If people see any vandalism occurring they should contact the police or the harbourmaster immediately. Signs and buoys are there for the safety of the harbour’s users. Without them, people’s lives are being put at unnecessary risk.”

To report any vandalism, contact the harbourmaster on 07 308 8570.

ENDS

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