Disturbing act at kids' playground: 'New level of low'

A recently opened playground was vandalised over the weekend, with the additional features posing a horrific danger to children.

Tyre marks were branded onto the grass and upside down nails were glued onto the play equipment in two different areas at Waikato Parks on New Zealand's north island, with one unsuspecting local catching sight of the mess during a walk.

Waipā District mayor Susan O’Regan said the nails were a "new level of low" and shared the incident was disappointing after locals pushed for the area to gain a place where children could play outdoors, Stuff reports.

Alongside her son and husband, Ms O'Regan picked up litter the following day, which was strewn across the ground. It comprised a large KFC bag and six soft drink cans. There was no indiction that alcohol had been consumed. Unfortunately there was no receipt left among the rubbish which may have helped authorities identify the offenders.

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Appeal for witnesses of playground vandalism

Ms O'Regan has urged members of the community to come forward if they have any information regarding the incident. She emphasised there was no suggestion that the same offenders were responsible for both acts of vandalism.

The council has now sown seeds onto the damaged grass, reportedly costing just under A$300, with authorities saying this is a first act of its kind in the area.

“We pride ourselves on our parks and are known for having great facilities. It’s frustrating to see idiots come and treat them with such disrespect," Ms O'Regan said.

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