Playground damaged in arson attack

A deliberately lit fire in the early hours of Sunday morning has caused an estimated $40,000 damage to a Karori playground.

The playground's toddlers unit – including a fort and slide – and rubber matting covering about 30 square metres was destroyed in the fire.

The area is currently fenced off until insurance assessors have attended the scene.

The Council’s Manager Parks and Gardens, Paul Andrews, says the Council will endeavour to replace the playground equipment as quickly as possible but it is unlikely children in the area will be able to enjoy the new facilities before February.

“We will do what we can but given the extent of the damage I am not expecting to be able to fix this for some months,” says Mr Andrews.

“This sort of mindless vandalism is what ratepayers end up having to pay for. It’s happening too often.

“We have reported the incident to the police and I can only hope that the culprits are caught and that justice is served.”

The rest of the play area including swings and big kids rope climber is undamaged and remains open for use.

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