Vandals hit the campaign trail too

SIGN OF THE TIMES: Election hoardings have started sprouting up around Northland - with this bunch at Whangarei Town Basin - and already they are being destroyed by vandals. PHOTO/MICHAEL CUNNINGHAM

The general election campaign in Whangarei has claimed its first casualty - an electoral hoarding sign smashed and stolen from Hikurangi.

The destruction and theft overnight Monday/Tuesday, has been reported to police and is being investigated as a case of wilful damage, which has a maximum penalty of three months' jail or a $2000 fine.

Election signs can be put up two months out from a general election, which this year is on September 20. Vandalism of signs is a constant threat for campaign teams.

Northland Police communications manager Sarah Kennett said police received a report on Tuesday over the sign advertising the National Party's Whangarei candidate, Shane Reti, which included images of him and John Key.

Mrs Kennett said the person who reported the crime had seen the sign on George St, at 6pm on Monday, but by 7am on Tuesday the wooden stakes and frame holding it had been smashed and the large blue election sign had gone. The estimated cost of the damage was $100.

While some people may consider election signs fair game, wilful damage was a criminal offence, Mrs Kennett said.

Anybody with information about the destruction can report it to Whangarei Police on 09 430 4500 or anonymously to the Crimestoppers organisation on 0800 555 111.