Theft of gates disturbing

Havelock North man Bill Lepper, 84 is wondering why a set of custom gates were stolen from his property

Waking to find his gates stolen has been a "huge shock" for Havelock North man Bill Lepper, 84.

He was on his way to the Hawke's Bay races on Saturday with daughter Philippa Thompson when he discovered the custom-made gates had been stolen off their hinges overnight on Friday.

"His gates are always shut, but they weren't this time so I drove in - as I backed out he went to shut them when he saw they were gone. The look on his face ... " she said. "It ruined his day. He couldn't settle."

As a former jockey who rode in 1000 races, attending spring meets was a highlight, but he was unable to relax after the incident and went home early.

It was an invasion of privacy, and the family couldn't understand why someone would
commit such a senseless act.

"They are not a standard size. Has someone just taken them for a prank? We don't know where they are," Ms Thompson said.

"There's the odd letter box smashing or smashed bottles along the road but this is new."

Mr Lepper was wary the brazen thieves might be back for more of his possessions.

Initial quotes to replace the gates have come back at about $600.

The gates had been in place for 30 years with no problems.

However, there was nothing stopping thieves or vandals from removing them - something he'd like to make others aware of.

"I think we should tell other people that my gate didn't have anything to stop them taking it off ... It's not what it costs. It's just so upsetting," he said.

None of his neighbours had heard or seen anything, and Mr Lepper believed it would have taken more than one person and possibly a vehicle.

"You wouldn't believe it - it just goes to show things have changed. When I had an orchard I used to leave the petrol drum in the garage with a pump.

You wouldn't do that now."

He had reported the theft to police, but received a note saying they would not be able to continue with an investigation due to a lack of evidence.

"It was a huge shock. I'm lucky I don't have a dog or it would be gone."