Peace Bell stolen from Henderson's Japanese Garden
Update as of 19 November:
Council staff have passed the CCTV footage to Police and will continue working with them to help identify those responsible.
Original information published on 12 November:
A treasured symbol of friendship between New Zealand and Japan has been stolen from the Japanese Garden beside the Henderson Civic Building.
Council staff discovered on Tuesday morning that the Peace Bell – weighing around one tonne and made of solid bronze – had been taken overnight. They are currently reviewing nearby CCTV footage and will work with Police to help identify those responsible.
Henderson-Massey Local Board Chair, Chris Carter, says the board is saddened to see such a meaningful symbol taken from a place that celebrates peace, friendship, and harmony.
“The bell was a gift to the people of the former Waitākere City Council from the Japanese city of Kakogawa. It represents decades of friendship and cultural connection between our two cities.”
The Peace Bell was gifted in 1997, following the signing of a friendship agreement between Waitākere City and Kakogawa in 1991. The two cities became official sister cities the following year.
General Manager of Corporate Support Services at Auckland Council, Anita Furniss, says staff are frustrated and disappointed by this heartless act of theft.
“Whoever is behind this has gone to great effort to steal the bell, which appears to have been cut off and removed using heavy machinery. It’s a real blow for the community, including our staff at Henderson Civic who work next to and enjoy the gardens every day.
“We would love to see the bell returned and are asking anyone with information about its whereabouts to please contact the council or Police.”
Waitākere Ward Councillor Ken Turner described the loss as “deeply unacceptable” and representing a tragic loss for the community.
“I want our Japanese community and friends to know that this does not reflect who we are, nor the values we stand for.”
Fellow Ward Councillor Shane Henderson said: “this event is deeply saddening and concerning for our communities out west and for our friends in the sister city, Kakogawa. I hope for the safe return of the Peace Bell and for the continued growth of friendship between our two cities”.
Anyone with information about the missing bell is urged to call Auckland Council on 09 301 0101. Information can also be provided by updating Police online or by calling 105 using the reference number 251112/1495. You can contact Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
