Thieves put lives at risk

DEPOWERED: The warning sign on SH39 is blank. Photo supplied.

Transit New Zealand is disappointed efforts to warn motorists of potentially fatal dangers are being thwarted by ongoing vandalism.

Ongoing damage to safety signs installed by Transit New Zealand on State Highway 39 near Pirongia last year has resulted in them having to be removed for repair. Transit area engineer Gerhard van Blerk says vandals have put their own lives and those of other motorists at risk by stopping on the side of the highway to damage the signs.

The vandalism began in November last year with the signal casing being damaged with an axe or sharp instrument. Since then, numerous objects have been thrown at the sign and parts have been stolen. The most recent theft of a solar panel, on Monday last week, would have required someone to climb up a five-metre pole.

Transit installed the two speed-activated warning signs near Kiwi Road on SH39 to strengthen the warning to motorists of the winding road conditions that require a slower speed.

“The stolen solar panel is specifically designed for this type of application and can not be reused. It is therefore of no use to anyone and its theft can only be described as an irresponsible act of vandalism. The sign no longer works and we have removed it to replace the broken components. This is very disappointing as the signs were put there to help save lives, and the thoughtless actions of vandals have disabled an important warning.”

The signs are located 5km south of Pirongia village and 21km north of Otorohanga on the approaches to two reverse ‘S bend’ curves, which have been the scene of seven crashes over the last five years, including two fatalities.

“Experience with these electronic warning devices indicates they have the potential to noticeably reduce the number of speed-related crashes by increasing the impact of the warning message,” says Transit acting regional manager Kaye Clark. “Transit’s aim is to effectively encourage drivers to slow down through the curves and avoid any further crashes.”

Anyone who noticed suspicious activity near the sign is asked to contact Te Awamutu Police at 872 0100.