'Satan tree' in Taradale will have to be cut down after vandalism

The tree's bark was stripped off before the message was carved into it. Photo / Paul Taylor

A Hawke's Bay tree that had most of its bark stripped off and the words "Satan Loves You" carved into it will have to be cut down because of the damage.

A Napier City Council spokesperson said the oak tree in Taradale Park is too badly damaged to be saved.

The tree's bark was stripped off before the message was carved into it. Photo / Paul Taylor

"It will be replaced at some stage.

"Council would appreciate it if members of the community could keep an eye out for this kind of behaviour."

A witness, who did not want to be named, said the tree had been damaged by a group of youths.

A tree reading "Satan Loves You" has to be cut down due to the damage. Photo / Paul Taylor

He said the incident occurred last week, the same day a new shade sail was put up, saying it was ironic that the park's old shade was damaged at the same time.