Bridging the gap after a theft that was, quite literally, a bridge too far.
Nelson building company Langdon Construction has stepped in to help Stoke School by replacing a historic and “well-loved” rainbow bridge in its junior playground — free of charge — after it was detached in the early hours of 7 May.
The bridge was found last Friday on the banks of the Waimea River off Blackbyre Rd.
Cheyenne Roach, who discovered it, returned the colourful playground feature to the school on Monday.
However, due to the damage sustained, it cannot be reinstated.
Stoke School principal Sarah Davies says the theft had left the community cross and created a gap in play, development, and engagement for younger students and children who use the playground after hours.
“[The theft] happened overnight with no real rhyme or reason as to why it happened, and it has generated an issue for our kids who can't play ‘where are the trolls’ [a playground game] anymore, because the trolls [the perpetrators] had taken the bridge,” she says.
She says the generosity of Langdon was uplifting.
“It’s an amazing action, and it's a great focus for our kids about the positivity of people out there and companies who will step up and support kids when they need it. Well done to Langdon Construction for stepping into that space,” she says.
“It really does show that out in the Stoke community, while there are unfortunate people who make poor choices that impact our children, there are some amazing people who offer us support and who will do the follow-up.
“Langdon Construction are coming for a visit this week, and we're going to have a look at what needs to be done, and how that work will go… we look forward to the new bridge.”
Sarah says, including labour hours, it would have cost the school just over $1000 to do a full bridge replacement.
“Schools are in a constant battle with property care and maintenance,” she says.
“The reality is that every dollar and hour spent repairing vandalism or replacing stolen equipment is time and money diverted away from learning opportunities for children.”
She also had a message for those responsible.
“It'd be great if they owned up, because they could contribute back to our school in a positive way, they could help us with gardens and things like that,” she says.
“Be respectful in our community spaces, whether it's a school, a community park, or anywhere where children play because they need to be able to play safely.”
Police say their enquiries are ongoing, and anyone with information who may have taken the bridge can contact 105 and reference file number 260518/3858.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers 0800 555 111.
