The Whangarei District Council has removed a protest banner from a popular beach resort, citing breach of a bylaw.
During the Christmas/New Year period the banner was strung up between flagpoles erected recently by the council at Langs Cove. Using a bit of humour to make a point, the mystery protester asked why "$27,000" was spent on them when "our footpaths are buggered and rubbish bins overflowing". What was the poles' purpose, the banner asked, and "Do they come with dancers?"
Langs Beach Residents Association chairwoman Christine Birrs said most residents in the area were sympathetic to the sentiments voiced.
"I can understand why they are frustrated and everyone was saying we want to congratulate them," Ms Birrs said.
Residents had been asking the council to upgrade Langs Cove area footpaths for some time.