Pania’s discovery leads to pair’s arrest

Another chapter was added to the tale of Napier's heroine Pania yesterday - her safe return.

Two people were arrested in relation to the statue's theft last week, with more likely to follow, after police found it under blankets in the garage of a Napier house.

A 27-year-old man and a 26-year-old woman are in custody and are expected to appear in the Napier District Court today charged with theft.

Napier area commander Inspector Kevin Kalff said police found the statue after a tip-off.

"We are absolutely positive there are more people involved," he said.

He would not comment on a possible motive, or suggestions there had been plans to seek a ransom.

There was also no information linking the pair to an anonymous letter seeking amnesty for the theft received by Napier Mayor Barbara Arnott this week.

The theft of the 60kg bronze statue in the early hours of Thursday last week caused outrage among locals.

None more so than 67-year-old Mei Whaitiri, who modelled for the statue carved by an Italian sculptor more than 50 years ago.

This week Mrs Whaitiri said she was disgusted by the theft, which had affected her health, but yesterday the Ngati Kahungunu kuia was in better spirits.

Reports the statue had been found brought her to tears. "She was lost and now she is found. I look forward to the day she is back on her stand."

Mrs Whaitiri said the statue had strong significance to Maori and to all residents and was the source of fond memories for many.

Her words were echoed by Mayor Arnott: "People have a lot of ties with Pania. I have had people coming up to me all week saying, 'I can remember when I was a child coming here to get a photo with her'."

She said the theft highlighted how special the statue was for the community and for the many visitors.

A ceremony returning the statue to its prominent waterfront position was expected next week.

Mrs Arnott said the statue was in good condition despite receiving a "few scratches and nicks".

It was yet to be decided if more security would be employed once it was returned. "She has sat there for 51 years and been quite happy, and there is no reason why she shouldn't sit there for another 51."