Crime an udder disgrace

Olive, the giant Friesian cow statue that welcomes visitors to Ha¯wera in South Taranaki, has suffered a heinous attack at the hands of tool-wielding vandals. Some time in the past week, her tail was broken and a teat removed, a post on the Farm Source Taranaki’s Facebook page said. It is thought a power tool was used in the attack as the statue is made of steel. The much larger-than-life artwork has stood at the intersection of State Highway 3 and Whareroa Rd, beside Fonterra’s giant Whareroa plant, for 25 years. ‘‘We’re really disappointed that Olive, who’s loved by locals, staff and tourists alike, was vandalised earlier this week,’’ said Farm Source spokesman Donald Lumsden. ‘‘Hopefully, with a little skill and effort, she’ll be repaired and looking her best again soon.’’ The damage had been reported to police, he said, and security improved at the site.