Rustling a rural plague

Acts of animal cruelty have a Muriwai farmer concerned that large numbers of his stock are being shot and stolen under the cover of darkness.

Ian Houghton has lost nearly 50 head of stock in the past four months.

The latest incident saw three sheep shot and left to die in the paddock over Labour weekend.

The sheep, which were found not far from his house, were "gut-shot" and Mr Houghton believes the offenders were just shooting for the sake of it.

He says the killing and theft of stock is an ongoing problem associated with the farming lifestyle, but it has been more prevalent in recent months.

"Our biggest concern is that someone is shooting all over the place.

"There are several houses across the farm and they could be in the firing line," he says.

Constable Marty Spear of Kumeu police agrees that aside from the animal welfare issues it is worrying that someone is driving round with a loaded firearm.

Mr Spear says rustling has been a nationwide problem during the recession.

Police are calling on the local community to help identify the local offender who has been operating between the hours of 2am to 6am.

Although Muriwai Rd is a popular place for people to stop and take photos of the coastal views, police would still like residents to note registration numbers of vehicles that look out of place.

If you have any information contact Kumeu police on 362-7545.

- © Fairfax NZ News