This came to my attention via a tramping forum. Shooting up the hut could of been anyone but demolishing the loo and pulling out fence posts suggests a vehicle involved. I hope it wasnt a clubisuzu member
Another access we will likely lose due to drop kicks we cant control
http://www.odt.co.nz/regions/southland/ ... mavora-hut
Gun-toting vandals have damaged a public hut in the Mavora Lakes, raising police concerns and potentially leading to restricted access to the popular, family-friendly area.
The Department of Conservation and police are investigating after an estimated $7500 damage was done to Boundary Hut during Labour Weekend.
Fence posts were ripped out and the entrance turnstile was removed and burnt; hut decking was torn up for firewood,
and food smeared throughout the hut's interior, a Doc spokesperson said.
Most troubling, however, was the complete destruction of the toilet and water tanks, which were all shot at close range.
Sergeant Tod Hollebon, of Te Anau, said it was very disappointing to see the damage.
"Back country huts are maintained to a very high standard by DOC at a considerable expense to the taxpayer. The public have a low tolerance for this sort of damage and everybody loses out.''
Police were investigating and anyone found responsible would be prosecuted to the full extent of the law, Sgt Hollebon said.
The use of a firearm in the incident raised the level of seriousness of the incident, he said.
''To own and use a firearm is a privilege in New Zealand which will quickly be removed from those who show they are not fit to be in possession of one."
Doc, which manages Mavora Lakes Park, is reviewing whether 4WD and vehicle access to the park will be allowed to continue.
Grant Tremain, Conservation Services Manager for Fiordland District, said it was the most extensive damage he had ever seen in 20 years of looking after huts and campsites.
''These people drove to a public hut then destroyed it, it's disgraceful.''
''This type of vandalism affects visitors to this popular place and damages New Zealand's reputation, and the use of firearms in this way potentially put the safety of park users at risk.''
Anyone with information can give it anonymously through Crime Stoppers 0800 5551110800 555111.