A South Auckland preschool has been left devastated after thieves broke in over the weekend, leaving a trail of destruction that has shocked the local community, The New Zealand Herald reported.
The Ōtara Community Preschool was ransacked, with vandals smashing windows, spilling paint across floors, and destroying valuable educational resources. The senseless attack has left children without essential belongings and the preschool struggling to cover the damages.
Inspector Rakana Cook, Counties Manukau East Area Prevention Manager, described the incident as "disgusting" and condemned the behaviour.
“Nine internal windows were smashed, along with damage to a microwave, oven, and computers. The offenders showed no regard for the impact of their actions, ruining property seemingly for the sake of it,” Cook said.
Photos from inside the preschool reveal the full extent of the chaos, with paint-coated footprints across the children’s bathroom floors and punch holes in the walls.
Photo: Supplied/Police
“This is an awful situation. A preschool now has to foot the bill for this crime, while children are left without their educational resources,” Cook added.
Police are urging anyone with information about the break-in to come forward. Several people have already provided leads, but authorities are seeking further assistance to identify those responsible.
“Help us hold these offenders accountable,” Cook said.
If you have any details about the incident, please contact local police.