Tasman District Council Vandalized Bilingual Signs: A Message of Mindless Narrow-Mindedness

The Tasman District Council has recently experienced a surge in vandalism targeting its bilingual ‘Welcome to Tasman’ signs, with the council reaffirming its support for te reo Māori and condemning such behavior as “mindless narrow-minded” behaviour.

The Vandalism: A Repeated Affair

Over the past year, the council has reported between 12 and 15 incidents of vandalism on its five bilingual welcome signs located on highways and major thoroughfares into the Tasman region. The perpetrators have targeted the te reo Māori sections of the signs, either removing them or replacing them with offensive graffiti.

The Council’s Response

In a statement posted to Facebook, the Tasman District Council expressed its disappointment and frustration at the repeated vandalism. “These signs welcome residents and visitors alike to our region,” said Chris Choat, the council’s communications manager. “We are proud of these signs, and we love that they welcome people in both English and te reo Māori.”

Choat highlighted that the financial burden imposed by repairing the signs each time is significant, costing the council thousands of dollars. However, he acknowledged that the ongoing nature of this issue diverts time, money, and personnel away from other projects that could be undertaken.

A Call for Respect

The council has taken steps to protect its signs, but practicalities have limited their ability to prevent vandalism entirely. Choat urged those responsible to consider the broader impact of their actions, stating, “Of course, you can express your opinions in a variety of ways that don’t cost ratepayers money.”

Tasman District Council has reaffirmed its commitment to te reo Māori and condemned racism in the region. The council’s statement concluded, “No-one is losing or giving up anything through the use of te reo Māori. In fact, we are gaining something… We respect the Māori worldview, language and culture.”

A Message of Respect

As the Tasman District Council continues to experience vandalism targeting its bilingual signs, it is essential to recognize the importance of respecting te reo Māori and promoting a culture of inclusivity. The council’s efforts to protect its signs and promote the use of te reo Māori demonstrate its commitment to this cause.

In conclusion, the Tasman District Council’s experience with vandalism on its bilingual signs highlights the need for greater respect towards te reo Māori and a more inclusive approach to communication. By promoting diversity and inclusivity, we can create a more welcoming environment for everyone.