Normally a core decoration for uni dorms and flats alike, road cones and street signs are often 'borrowed' by students for their accommodations, but the University of Canterbury Students' Association (UCSA) has issued an amnesty for their return.
Tova O'Brien spoke to the Students’ Association president Pierce Crowley about the amnesty.
"We're hoping to get back as many as we can, we probably lost anywhere between 50 and 100 [cones and signs], as many as we can get back is perfect," Crowley said.
Over NZD$2,000 worth of cones and signs have been stolen from the traffic management set-up on Ilam Road which was in place for the UCSA 2023 orientation event to ensure the safety of students and other road users during the event.
"It's student money and at the end of the day, that's why we are putting out that message, the money could go towards another event."
UCSA has urged anyone with road signs or cones in their possession to return them, no questions asked, by midday on Friday.
The road safety equipment can be dropped off at the university's security office and individuals returning the signs will not face any penalties.
The security office will be open for extended hours, making it convenient for anyone to swing by.
UCSA has emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating that they are being charged for every sign that is not returned.
Listen to the full interview between Pierce Crowley and Tova above.
You can also download the full interview on the Tova podcast, and listen on the go.