Authorities are hunting for "idiots" with chainsaws who cut down trees in Hawke's Bay reserves.
Trees have been cut down in a reserve on Omarunui Rd and another in Dartmoor during the past four to five months, the latest just this week.
Two poplar trees by the Tutaekuri River were cut down
using chainsaws, taking out a fence when they fell.
Hawke's Bay Regional Council operations engineering officer Vince Byrne said a tree had been cut down a few months ago and the council had cleared it and repaired the fence.
It was likely the same party was responsible, he said.
"Either they're clowns being idiots, or they intend to come back and cut it up later."
The people responsible may claim to have found the tree already felled if they were caught cutting it up at a later time.
In Dartmoor, felled trees had hit the tops of other trees and been caught, creating a serious hazard for anyone nearby during high winds. Heavy machinery was being brought in to pull them down because there was no other safe way to remove them.
Those responsible could face a $5000 fine and charges for damages and the clean-up, estimated in the thousands.
Residents in nearby houses may have heard chainsaws or seen vehicles in the area, Mr Byrne said.
"Anyone who sees or hears somebody in these parks and reserves with chainsaws should report it to the regional council immediately."
The council was putting surveillance in some areas and Mr Byrne hoped with the public's help the council could catch and charge those responsible.
Anyone with information could call the council on 835 9200. A duty manager could be reached after hours by following the voicemail directions.
