Over $40,000 worth of Surf Life Saving equipment was stolen from New Plymouth's East End Surf Life Saving Club on Sunday night (1 March).
Thieves smashed through sectional rollers doors of the Surf Life Saving club's storage shed last Sunday evening and made away with essential life saving equipment. Five Mercury outboard motors, one quad bike and a number of specially modified propellers, tools and lifejackets were among some of the items stolen.
"The motors were quite recognisable as they all had propeller guards and BP or East End SLSC stickers on. They have been modified for Surf Life Saving needs and are easily identified, however a bit of black spray paint could easily remove the logos," said Andrew Cronin, East End Surf Life Saving Coach.
"It's extremely frustrating when a charitable community organisation takes a hit like this. Our members are so dedicated to the essential life saving services we provide and suddenly overnight we are unable to perform our core services because of theft," said Cronin.
A trailer and damaged IRB stolen from the SLS club were located on Monday morning at Waiwhakaiho rivermouth. Mr Cronin believes the stolen items may make their way outside the Taranaki area to wider districts and urges anyone who sees anything suspicious to contact the Fitzroy Community Policing Centre.
"We have had a fantastic response from fellow Surf Life Saving clubs and suppliers throughout the country, who have offered to loan us parts and engines to enable us to continue operating. These offers have been incredible and we are extremely grateful for their support. " said Cronin.
The Surf Life Saving club is insured but it will be some time until it is determined whether this might cover the full cost of the outboard motors with a replacement value of $6500 each.
Police are also appealing to the public to come forward if anyone noticed anything suspicious in the Nobs Line area or at Waiwhakaiho between 7pm Sunday evening and 8am Monday morning. Please contact Constable Pete Loader from the Fitzroy Community Policing Centre, ph (06) 759 5500.
