Thieves have taken a collection of bronze memorial plaques from an Auckland cemetery, in a "brazen" act of vandalism.
The memorial wall at the Paparoa Howick Cemetery. Photo: Supplied / Auckland Council
The Auckland Council said about 20 plaques had been removed from a memorial wall at the Paparoa Howick Cemetery, leaving urns exposed.
The thefts have been reported to police, who were contacting the families.
Auckland Cemeteries manager Catherine Moore said it was likely the thieves took the plaques for the value of the bronze.
She described their actions as "absolutely disgusting".
"It's a dreadful thing to happen - families have placed their loved ones' remains in our care in this place, and I think this act is just appalling."
Ms Moore said they were increasing security at the cemetery.
The memorial wall at the Paparoa Howick Cemetery. Photo: Supplied / Auckland Council
