The historic flagpole on Te Maiki Hill in Russell was “seriously” damaged and the area covered in graffiti, prompting a police investigation.
Police said in a statement they suspect the damage occurred sometime between Sunday and Monday.
The news comes just days before Waitangi Day.
The area has significant history in New Zealand. Six flagpoles were erected there between 1840 and 1913 – the flagpole previously erected at Waitangi was moved there in March 1840.
The flagpole was felled four times by Ngāpuhi chief Hone Heke and his cohorts as an objection to British sovereignty, sparking the Northland Wars.
Julianne Myers/stuff
Police are investigating damage to a historic flagpole in Russell. Pictured: Flagstaff Hill Historic Reserve.
The flagpole was never raised again during Heke’s lifetime.
In 1858 the fifth flagpole was erected by Maihi Paraone, son of Te Ruki Kawiti, chief of Ngāti Hine, but fell down again in March 1913 as a result of a gorse fire.
However, it was not completely destroyed and was finally erected three months later.
Police said Friday the area is now “unsafe” and has been fenced off while the Department of Conservation works to restore the building and its surroundings.
The immediate area as well as the path between Titore Way and the Te Maiki car park were also closed, the Department of Conservation said.
The parking lot and sundial remained open to the public, as did the stretch between Wellington Street and the Te Maiki Hill parking lot.
Neither the police nor the DOC could provide photos of the damage.
Police urged anyone with information to call 105 and quote case number 220202/8881.
Information may also be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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