Bronze Plaque Stolen From Whakatāne Kiwi Trust’s Wandering Trail

The Whakatāne Kiwi Trust says it is reconsidering the future of its popular Wandering Trail after another act of vandalism saw a bronze plaque stolen from one of its kiwi sculptures.

The trust said the plaque from bronze kiwi number eight, Kaputerangi, had been removed or stolen, just as volunteers were celebrating the return of bronze kiwi number 10, Te Hau, following an earlier incident.

The latest theft continues what the trust describes as a frustrating cycle of vandalism, repairs and replacements.

“It feels like we are stuck in a constant cycle of theft and vandalism, followed by repairs and replacements,” the trust said.

“Every time this happens, it comes at a significant cost to the Trust, taking away valuable time and resources that could otherwise be spent on our conservation work in the field.”

The trust believes the theft may be linked to recent incidents involving stolen bronze RSA plaques in the Whakatāne area.

It is appealing for anyone who witnessed suspicious activity or has information about the missing plaque to come forward.

People with information are asked to contact the trust.

The trust said it regularly receives suggestions to install CCTV cameras at the trail sites, but the cost and practicalities make that unrealistic.

“We appreciate the common suggestion of installing CCTV cameras; however, the practicality and cost of installing and maintaining cameras at all 10 Wandering Trail locations is simply not feasible.”

The Wandering Trail was created to encourage residents and visitors to explore Whakatāne while learning about kiwi conservation. However, repeated vandalism is forcing the organisation to reconsider its future.

“We are now having to rethink the future of the Wandering Trail, which is incredibly disappointing,” the trust said.

“The trail was created for the community and visitors to enjoy, and it is disheartening that a small number of people continue to damage or remove parts of these artworks.”

The trust has released a photograph of an identical bronze plaque to the one that is missing. The only difference is the information engraved on it.

Despite the latest setback, the trust thanked the community for its ongoing support of its conservation work.