"Rodney Police investigate damage to Maori carving at Whangaparaoa College "

Rodney Police are investigating the arson of a Maori carving at Whangaparaoa College.

The carvings, which had been commissioned by the college, had only been installed on Monday at the entrance to the Te Maramara a Tane Maori Studies block at the school.

After their installation they were covered with black plastic so they could be revealed today (Wednesday), but sometime between 7.30pm on Monday night and 6.30am on Tuesday morning the black plastic covering was set alight.

The carvings were scorched and damaged by the black plastic dripping onto them.

(Other photos available with this release on police website)

Investigations are now underway and Police would like to hear from anyone with information.

Inspector Mark Fergus, Area Commander of the Rodney Police says "This is extremely disappointing for not only the College but also the community.

We can't speculate on the motivations of whoever lit this on fire but we're very keen to hear from anyone who may have observed suspicious behaviour in the area on Monday night, or from anyone else who can provide us with information."

The site was blessed on Tuesday morning by a local Kaumatua.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Senior Constable Ian Price, Whangaparaoa Police on 09 947 5137.

Information can also be given anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

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