Vandals do significant damage to Victoria Square.

Significant damage has been done overnight to the block walls in the recently restored Victoria Square with vandals forcibly removing around 46 brass skate fins, designed to deter skateboarding.

“It is deeply disappointing that after all the time, money and effort that has gone into this much-loved space that someone would willingly damage it,” says Ōtākaro Limited Development General Manager, John O’Hagan.

“These skate fins are easily identifiable and anyone who sees one or knows anything about this senseless act should report it to Police.”

Victoria Square is a large public space and like many parks has never been covered by security cameras.

“The consultation process for the Victoria Square restoration showed us how protective people are of Victoria Square.”

A security guard will be in place overnight in the immediate future while a permanent solution is considered.

“People should still feel free to visit and use Victoria Square, the damage does not pose a safety risk.”

It is not yet known how long it will take or how much it will cost to repair the damage.

“We expect the repair work will take several weeks and cost well over one hundred thousand dollars. Replacement stone will need to be cut and in some cases etched to repair the damage to the new Parerau artwork behind the Queen Victoria statue.”

“High-quality materials were used in Victoria Square because we know it is an important place for people. This sort of selfish act only spoils the experience for those wanting to visit this restored space,” says Mr O’Hagan.

ENDS

© Scoop Media