Whangamata cemetery grounds damaged

Grassy areas within the cemetery grounds at Whangamata have been damaged by what appears to be either motorbikes or small quad bikes that have been able to fit through the barriers at the gates.

Track marks have rutted out the sections of the grass reserve within the cemetery making it unsightly and uneven to walk across. There's no evidence that any graves have been driven across.

Vehicles may only be driven on designated access ways and park only in designated parking areas.

"It is disappointing to have this type of damage reported as cemeteries are respectful places for people to come and visit and remember loved ones that have passed on," says Paula Carr, our District Cemeteries Co-ordinator.

"The majority of people appreciate this while visiting cemeteries and we are fortunate that occurrences of vandalism and wilful damage are not common," says Mrs Carr.

We also have Bylaws that regulate what activities can be carried out on public places and reserves, including our cemeteries.

Vehicles can't be driven at a greater speed than marked on any road within a cemetery, and in any other direction other than indicated by traffic notices. If there's no speed limit signs, vehicles can only be driven no faster than 5 kilometres an hour on any cemetery road.

If you're unsure as to what is allowed within our district cemeteries please contact our Customer Services staff for assistance on 07 868 0200 or email customer.services@tcdc.govt.nz

For more information on our Cemeteries Bylaw 2015 click here or for more on our Public Places Bylaw 2004 click here.

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