The plaques were stolen from the World War 1 ‘Krupp Gun’ near the top of the Cable Car, from the Rudderstone sculpture and from at least two park benches. It appears an attempt was also made to steal a plaque from the base of the landmark Henry Moore sculpture on the hillside above the Lady Norwood Rose Garden.
Wellington Gardens Manager David Sole says it could cost up to $10,000 to get replacement plaques made – so Wellington City Council is eager to see the plaques returned.
Police have been notified of the thefts – and scrap dealers are asked to alert police if anyone tries to sell the plaques as scrap.
“We’re obviously gutted that someone has caused so much damage and inconvenience given the paltry return they might possibly make if they manage to offload these plaques.
“Even worse is the fact that they’ve been heartless enough to steal some memorial plaques off the park benches – we hope scrap dealers will identify the plaques and alert police,” says Mr Sole.