Police are seeking information about vandalised speed cameras in South Auckland, including one they say "appears to have been shot at".
Investigations have been underway since three cameras around the Waiuku area were damaged in the space of a week, Newshub reported in March.
"The stands that these cameras sit upon have been forced down or pushed over, and in one concerning incident, the bottom of a camera appears to have been shot by a firearm," said Counties Manukau South Area Commander, Inspector Joe Hunter.
The speed cameras have been heavily criticised by locals since speed limits on key roads in the Franklin area were lowered from 100km/h to 80km/h in 2020.
This led to a 300 percent increase in tickets issued on Glenbrook Rd alone.
A Waiuku local, who wished to remain anonymous, told Newshub in March he didn't know who had vandalised the cameras, "but I think you could round up every motorist who lives in the region and they would all stick their hand up and claim it was them".
"I wouldn't be surprised if more cameras are cut down - people are so angry at the abuses of power that they are finally starting to fight back. And I can guarantee if anyone is seen cutting down a camera they are not going to be reported to the police," the local said.
In February, Franklin local board member Gary Holmes accused the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) of prioritising "revenue gathering" over road safety in the area.
Holmes obtained NZTA data showing despite a 300 percent increase in speeding tickets on Glenbrook and Glenbrook-Waiuku Roads since the reduced speed limit, the number of deaths and serious injuries from crashes remained "concerningly high".
Between 2018 and 2023, there were two fatal crashes, 11 crashes that caused serious injuries and 45 collisions where minor injuries were sustained on the two roads.
But the data also revealed only 10 percent - or 12 crashes - were attributed to speeding. The rest were down to other factors, with alcohol and/or drugs the leading contributor, causing 21 crashes.
Insp Hunter said speed cameras are effective and damaging them "increases the chances of your loved ones not making it home safely".
Police are urging anyone with information on the vandalism to call them on 105 or contact them online, quoting file number 40304/8260.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
