Napier courthouse closed after inmate damages sprinkler system

Napier's courthouse is out of action until the week of November 6. Photo / Lauren Crimp, RNZ

By Lauren Crimp of RNZ

A prisoner has been accused of vandalising the sprinkler system at Napier’s courthouse, causing extensive water damage and forcing it to shut for three weeks.

The flooding happened on Friday and the Ministry of Justice said the courthouse would be closed for a week.

But on Thursday a spokesperson told RNZ the Hastings St building would now be out of action until the week of November 6.

District Court proceedings will be heard at Hastings District Court in the meantime, but the court said there would be delays and some hearings might be adjourned and rescheduled.

There were no matters for the High Court set down for the next two weeks.

The police said no charges had been laid but inquiries were continuing.

The sign informing people about the closure of the Napier courthouse. Photo / Lauren Crimp, RNZ