Thefts put communities at risk

Break-ins at the Kaitāia Water Treatment Plant are hitting ratepayers in the pocket and putting the community at serious risk.

The first incident in June involved the theft of hand tools and damage to security chains and locks. Two weeks later in July, a second break-in cut cabling and leads to specialist equipment, damaged security equipment and – more seriously – a chlorine storage area.

Compromising the storage of chlorine is particularly worrying as even low levels of exposure to the gas can cause adverse reactions that include vomiting, headaches and chest pain. The actions of the culprits presented potentially very serious health and safety issues for the public.

The two burglaries, which have been reported to NZ Police, caused damage in excess of $12,000. The cost of repairs and the replacement of stolen items is ultimately borne by ratepayers – money that could have been used to benefit the community.

As a result of the break-ins, security has been upgraded and signs warning of the dangers associated with chlorine storage have been improved.

Anyone seeing suspicious behaviour around any water treatment plants in the Far North is asked to call the NZ Police.

NZ Police are continuing their investigation of the break ins.

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Below and main picture - cables cut to equipment at the Kaitāia Water Treatment Plant caused thousands of dollars worth of damage.