Speed Camera Vandalized in Auckland, Police Investigate
A speed camera on the Coatesville–Riverhead Highway in northwest Auckland was deliberately felled last week, prompting a police investigation. The incident occurred around 7:30 PM last Thursday, with witnesses reporting a blue 4WD with a canopy leaving the scene after the device was damaged.
According to Inspector Jason Edwards of the New Zealand Police, officers arrived shortly after the incident but the perpetrator had already fled. “Police taped off the immediate area, and NZ Transport Agency was advised about the incident,” Edwards stated. Despite the camera being out of service, he emphasized that the 60km/h speed limit remains in effect and will be actively enforced.
The felled camera had generated over $10 million in fines since June 2020, when the speed limit on that stretch of highway was reduced from 80km/h to 60km/h. NZTA assumed responsibility for all safety cameras across the country in July 2025, and has confirmed plans to replace the damaged unit.
“Intentional vandalism of NZTA property is a criminal offence, and the action has been reported to NZ Police,” an NZTA spokesperson said. The agency is currently organizing the installation of a replacement camera.
Local Reaction and Claims of “Revenue Collector”
The incident has sparked local discussion, with some residents expressing support for the act of vandalism. Rodney local board member and road safety campaigner Geoff Upson posted a video to Facebook standing beside the toppled camera pole. Upson described the device as a “revenue collector” and suggested a local resident had taken matters into their own hands.
“Coatesville Riverhead Highway used to be 100, then it was 80, now it’s 60 and a community member, good Samaritan, has removed the revenue collecting camera, so anyway, good news, it’s safe for you to drive 61km/h on your way to work tomorrow,” Upson said in the video. His comments, while seemingly lighthearted, reflect a growing frustration among some residents regarding the speed limit and the perceived focus on revenue generation.
The Coatesville–Riverhead Highway has been a point of contention for years, with ongoing debate about the appropriate speed limit. The reduction to 60km/h was implemented following concerns about safety, particularly after a number of serious accidents. However, critics argue that the lower limit is unnecessarily restrictive and disproportionately impacts local commuters.
Broader Context of Speed Camera Vandalism
While this incident is specific to Coatesville–Riverhead Highway, This proves not isolated. Across New Zealand, and internationally, speed cameras are frequently targeted by vandals. Motivations range from genuine concerns about fairness and accuracy to outright opposition to speed enforcement measures. The debate often centers on the balance between road safety and individual liberties.
The increasing reliance on automated enforcement, including speed cameras, has also raised questions about transparency and accountability. Critics argue that the data used to justify speed limit reductions and camera placements is not always readily available to the public, leading to a lack of trust in the system.
Police have not released details about the investigation, including whether they have any leads on the vehicle or individual involved in the vandalism. They are appealing to anyone with information to come forward. The incident serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of damaging public property, even when motivated by perceived grievances.
The damaged camera’s removal underscores the ongoing tension between road safety initiatives and community sentiment. While authorities maintain that speed cameras are essential for reducing accidents and saving lives, some residents view them as an intrusive and unfair means of revenue collection. The investigation is ongoing, and the replacement of the camera is expected to reignite the debate surrounding speed limits and enforcement on the Coatesville–Riverhead Highway.
