Thefts of a high number of roadside grates pose serious risks to the public's safety, the Hamilton City Council says.
Twenty-two cast iron grates have been stolen this week, bringing the total taken this year to more than 300 at a cost of just under $100,000.
The grates, each weighing up to 60kg, cover holes through which water flows into stormwater drains.
The council says a spate of grate thefts throughout New Zealand has left replacements in short supply.
