Bay of Plenty Volunteer Coastguard has 1200 litres of fuel stolen

A volunteer Coastguard unit in New Zealand's Bay of Plenty region has fallen victim to theft, with 1200 liters of fuel stolen from its Waihī Beach base. The incident has forced the organization to utilize its contingency fund to replenish the stolen supply.

In a statement posted on Facebook, the Waihī Beach Volunteer Coastguard expressed its disappointment and disbelief that individuals would target a volunteer organization. The unit highlighted that the stolen fuel was essential for their operations, which are dedicated to serving and protecting the community. The theft not only represents a financial loss but also an emotional blow to the volunteers who dedicate their time and effort to a crucial cause.

The Coastguard unit is now working to recover from the loss and ensure its operational readiness is not compromised. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by volunteer organizations, which often operate on tight budgets and rely on the goodwill of the community.