Several historic gravestones vandalised at Auckland cemetery
RNZ / REECE BAKER
Several historic gravestones have been vandalised at a cemetery in the Auckland suburb of Parnell on Monday.
Police said they received a report just after 5pm that at least eight gravestones at St Stephen's Chapel had been pushed over and broken up.
Auckland Council area operation manager, Martin Wong, said they were aware of the incident.
"This is a disgraceful act and our hearts go out to the descendants of those lying in rest here," he said.
"The graves are maintained by volunteers, whose efforts have been helped by two Auckland Council grants over the last six years.
"The council manages the land, gardens and trees at this closed cemetery site, but does not look after the graves, as these are private property owned by the descendants. That said, we will assist to sensitively tidy up the damage and assist the police with their enquiries."
He said they were also investigating damage to council-owned toilets at the nearby Judges Bay over the weekend, where sinks, taps, and toilets were removed.
Anyone with information was asked to report it to police online or call 105 using the reference number 250707/2117.
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