Native bush has been illegally cleared from several areas within Egmont National Park/Te Papakura-o-Taranaki, prompting a Department of Conservation investigation.
In July, DoC staff became aware of the cleared areas on the northwest side of the park near Pukeiti, said Senior Ranger Cameron Hunt.
Working with NZ police, DoC discovered a campsite with several nearby clearings.
The clearings measured up to 10m by 10m and a pile of rubbish was found at the campsite.
DoC set up a CCTV camera at one of the clearings and captured the picture of a man they believe is connected to the clearings.
They are now asking the public for help identifying him.
"We believe someone knows who he is, and we'd welcome any information which helps us identify him," said Hunt.
Whoever it was that set up the campsite had put some work in as 200l plastic water tanks, a 44-gallon steel drum, five car batteries, a small fridge, and a gas cooker were found.
There was even a basic platform constructed from ponga logs and plywood.
"This person is obviously pretty organised and quite committed to whatever they were doing," Hunt said.
Anyone who recognises the man is urged to contact Cameron Hunt on 027 246 1083 or by emailing chunt@doc.govt.nz.
Under New Zealand's Conservation Act it is illegal to fell or remove trees, shrubs or plants on or from public conservation land.
Consequences can include fines of up to $100,000 and two years in jail.
If the offending continues, further fines of $10,000 a day may be imposed.
