Far North’s First Fixed Speed Radar Attacked The first fixed speed radar installed in the Far North District has been vandalized within weeks of its installation. The speed camera, located on State Highway 1 near Kaitaia, was attacked with a sledgehammer on Sunday night, rendering it inoperable. Inspector John Fagan of the Far North Police said the attack was “a senseless act of vandalism.” “This speed camera was installed to make our roads safer, and now it’s been destroyed,” he said. The radar had only been in operation for three weeks before it was attacked. It had already detected over 3,000 speeding motorists, including some traveling at over 100 km/h in the 50 km/h zone. “This shows just how much speeding is a problem in the Far North,” said Inspector Fagan. “And it’s a problem that has serious consequences. Speeding is one of the leading causes of serious crashes and fatalities on our roads.” Police are appealing for information about the attack. The offender could face charges of malicious damage and endangering transport. “We urge the community to come forward with any information they may have,” said Inspector Fagan. “These attacks simply cannot be tolerated.” The Far North District Council is responsible for the installation and maintenance of the speed cameras. Mayor Ann Court said the attack was “a travesty.” “This camera was vital for improving road safety in the Far North,” she said. “Its destruction is a setback, but we will not be deterred. We will replace this camera as soon as possible.” The council is now reviewing its security measures for the speed cameras. It is also considering installing additional cameras in high-risk areas. “Our message to the vandals is clear,” said Mayor Court. “We will not allow you to intimidate us or compromise the safety of our community.”Vandals Target Far North’s First Fixed RadarVandals Target Far North’s First Fixed Radar The first fixed radar in the Far North of New Zealand has become the target of vandalism just days before its scheduled activation. The camera was installed on State Highway 1 between Kawakawa and Moerewa at the request of the nearby Taumatamākuku community, following a series of fatal accidents. Community Dismay Roddy Pihema, chair of the Taumatamākuku Community Representatives Committee, expressed disappointment over the damage, emphasizing that the camera’s sole purpose was to protect the community. “It’s there to keep our community safe,” he said. Revenue-Raising Claims Dismissed Pihema refuted claims that the camera was installed for revenue-generating purposes. He explained that all other features, such as automatic license plate recognition, were removed at the community’s request. Therefore, only speeding vehicles would be affected. Reasons for Vandalism Pihema attributed the vandalism to a “bribe” and a misconception among some motorists that they could speed through the settlement. NZTA Condemns Damage Steve Mutton, NZTA regional relations director, expressed concern over the damage and confirmed that the agency would report the incident to the police for investigation. He also stated that additional measures might be implemented to protect the camera from further damage. Expected Repair Timeline NZTA is still assessing the extent of the damage but anticipates that the camera will be operational within a few weeks. Community Efforts The Taumatamākuku Community Representative Committee has made significant efforts over the past two years to enhance road safety. These measures include reducing the speed limit, installing speed bumps and footpaths, and ensuring improved pedestrian safety. Additional Fixed Speed Cameras The Far North’s fixed radar is the first of its kind in the region and the first installed in Northland by Waka Kotahi. Police operate two fixed speed cameras elsewhere in Northland: in Te Kamo (Whangārei) and Kaiwaka (Kaipara district).