NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is issuing a warning to those vandalising SH2 in protest the installation of median barriers.

Upset with NZTA’s decision to install median barriers along a section of SH2, side road residents have taken action to vandalise over road markings.

“Overnight State Highway 2 was vandalised again, with the road tagged in multiple locations. First and foremost, NZTA’s concern is for the safety of road users and of our crew working on site,” says a NZTA spokesperson.

“These people are risking their own lives and the lives of other motorists on the road. This is an 80km/h zone and, in the dark, drivers are unlikely to see someone standing on the road until it’s too late. It could cost lives.

“They are also causing additional inconvenience to other SH2 road users because traffic will be impacted while the spraying, some of which is offensive, is removed and the necessary markings reinstated. 15000 vehicles use this route every day, the illegal actions of a few shouldn’t risk the safety of everyone and the situation has been referred to NZ Police.”

Police statement:

Police have received reports of damage to the work contractors are undertaking on State Highway 2 near Katikati, says a police spokesperson. 

"Police are making initial inquiries.

"Police are concerned the work contractors are undertaking to make all road users safe is being impacted upon.

"Police would urge people to think about the consequences of such behaviour, which puts both those interfering with the work of contractors, along with all other road users, at risk.

"Anyone convicted of intentional damage could face up to seven years imprisonment."