Why do people think it is okay to steal plants and shrubs from a community park that is created by hard working volunteers and funded by generous donations from the community?

This is the question from Te Puna Quarry Park Society, which manages and develops the park in Te Puna.

"The Te Puna Quarry Park gives pleasure to young and old, and many dogs on leads, with its walking tracks through native bush on the eastern side and a maze of walkways on the western side, which take you to stunning views of the Bay of Plenty and oasis like areas of gardens along the way," says a spokesperson for the society.

"This park has been created over a period of 20 plus years by volunteers.

In the last three weeks, volunteers have come to work on Tuesday morning to find gaping holes in their respective areas where plants and shrubs once grew.

The Native area, the Herb area, the Succulent and Bromeliad area, the Rose garden and the Sensory garden have all been raided.

"No area seems to be sacred to the thieves. Dozens of plants and shrubs have been taken.

"We are taking security measures and would ask the public to report any unusual activity you see happening in the park.

"Drop an email with any detail you can gather to [email protected]

"We want Te Puna Quarry Park to continue to be a place of beauty for everyone to enjoy.

"We hope that members of the community will support us in this endeavour."

Park volunteers Shirley and Dianna in the Succulent garden