Two years after an arsonist in Kaitaia nearly destroyed the Far North Art Society, vandals have finally finished the centre off.
The society's main building was left in ashes after the 2005 arson by Lee Jo van Haaren and last week vandals devastated the remaining shed in two
separate attacks.
In the first spree they smashed artworks, tipped plaster over the floor and destroyed art supplies.
Society members boarded up the shed but the next evening vandals struck again, smashing the glass door.
As a result, says artist Jen Gay, the centre will close.
"The arson attack was the first big blow for us but we recovered and tried to continue. However this recent attack is too much for us and we've been forced to close.
"We're all volunteers and can't fundraise enough money to repair the centre and keep it going."
Ms Gay blames the attacks on some troublesome youths and says the location of the centre - between Jaycee Park and Matthews Ave - doesn't help.
She claims one gang of youths is constantly causing a nuisance in the town.
"The park has fallen into disrepair and kids gather there every night and glue-sniff. The evidence is everywhere.
"In a way I feel sorry for them as you can see they were trying to be creative when they broke in. They almost could have created some art with all the mess they made."
Ms Gay believes the answer to vandalism is to involve locals in art projects.
She is looking for funding to create a mural at the Kaikohe Library involving children from the area.
- NORTHERN ADVOCATE
