Thieves have dug up and stolen around 150 metres of cabling at a water supply pump station near Rotorua.
The theft of the data and power cables at Rewarewa Spring in Hamurana was discovered on May 28, but police said it may have taken place anytime from May 13.
"Police have made enquiries into the incident, however have exhausted all lines of enquiry to identify and locate those responsible," a police spokesperson said.
Rotorua Lakes Council water services manager Eric Gurden said the cabling was part of a stream flow monitoring system linked to the water take at Rewarewa, which supplies the Kaharoa and Hamurana communities at the northerm end of Lake Rotorua.
The cables appeared to have been removed by digging underground and pulling them out, potentially using a vehicle.
"This is theft from the community and is a nuisance for us as it will need to be replaced which will cost approximately $2000," Gurden said.
Water supply was unaffected and the site was not operational at the time of the theft.
Police said officers were still seeing people putting themselves in extreme danger to steal copper, especially those cutting wires or being near exposed wires.
"These thefts cause thousands of dollars in damage and stealing copper is not worth the risk of serious injury or death that is associated with the means of taking it," a spokesperson said.
Anyone with information in relation to the Hamurana incident was asked to contact police online or by calling 105, and reference 260528/9523.
The morning's headlines in 90 seconds, including a wild lightning storm over Nelson, a miracle rescue and a new honour for a football legend. (Source: 1News)
SHARE ME