Police end hunt for missing Peace Bell with no answers

The search for a white ute believed to be involved in the theft of a one-tonne bronze bell has been closed by police, with all available lines of inquiry exhausted.

Peace Bell Theft Investigation Closed

The Peace Bell, a symbol of friendship between New Zealand and Japan, was stolen from the Japanese Garden beside the Henderson Civic Building in Auckland last November.

The bell was taken overnight on November 10, and Auckland Council stated that significant effort was required to steal it, appearing to have been cut off and removed using heavy machinery.

Waitematā West Police Sergeant Juls Conder said police had sought all available CCTV footage in the immediate area. A white-coloured ute was captured entering a car park at around 1.46am and leaving at 1.51am, but was unable to be identified.

Police also contacted scrap metal dealers regarding the bell, but no further leads were generated.

The bell was originally gifted from the Japanese city of Kakogawa to former mayor Bob Harvey in 1997, following a friendship agreement signed in 1991.

Waitākere Ward councillor Shane Henderson expressed shock and devastation at the theft, describing the bell as a much-loved community asset. He questioned the mentality of those who would steal such an item, suggesting it was likely for scrap metal.

Henderson and Auckland mayor Wayne Brown contacted the Japanese consulate to express their disappointment following the theft. Police will assess any further information that comes to light.