NZTA's mobile camera trailers vandalised almost twice a month since rollout
The country’s ten mobile speed camera trailers have been vandalised at least 18 times since they were rolled out in September last year.
Data released to Newstalk ZB under the Official Information Act shows between September last year and this August, cameras have been graffitied 11 times, tyres on a camera trailer have been slashed once and cameras and trailers have been damaged in other ways six times.
The cameras are installed on big trailers which can be moved anywhere they’re deemed necessary.
None of the cameras have been put out of commission permanently and the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) said repair costs are part of its contract with Acusensus, the company it rents the camera-trailer units from.
Most of the vandalism is being reported in Manawatū-Whanganui, Waikato and Canterbury, with one case each reported in Auckland and Southland.
NZTA said the vandalism was extremely disappointing, created unnecessary costs and put road users at risk.
“The risk of death and serious injury is reduced if people drive to the speed limit,” the agency said.
“Intentional vandalism is also a criminal offence and will be reported to NZ Police.”
AA road safety spokesperson Dylan Thomsen said there was always backlash when new enforcement methods were introduced.
“I can think back and remember when fixed cameras were first introduced and there was a period of vandalism and attacks on the cameras but then people got used to them.”
Thomson said the camera-trailer units were built to be strong and withstand damage.
“They’re not flimsy, fragile or easily damaged but that doesn’t mean we want people trying to break them.”
He disputed claims the new cameras were unfair or hidden.
“They are still quite visible, you’re able to see them if you’re looking ahead and paying attention.”
Thomsen said they were an effective tool for authorities to use.
“They can be used at places like roadwork sites where you might not be able to have a fixed camera parked on the side of the road.”
Jacob Jones is a Newstalk ZB reporter working out of the Auckland newsroom. He has an interest in council and local government issues.
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