Vandalism in Hastings causes mail delivery confusion

Vandals have removed signs from closed post boxes in Hastings, leading to issues for local residents. This has caused confusion, as people are still trying to send mail using the boxes, unaware they have been closed for months. One resident, Carrol Makatea, experienced a delay in receiving important bowel cancer screening test results. Her mail was stuck in a post box that had been closed for nine months. She fears that other crucial mail could also be lost or delayed due to this problem. NZ Post is aware of the situation and confirms that they have closed several post boxes in Hastings and Havelock North in the past year. When they close a box, they usually place a sign to direct users to alternative options. However, the signs have been frequently vandalized, leaving the post boxes looking open. Makatea has called on NZ Post to improve their communication about closed boxes or to remove them altogether. She believes that a better system is needed to prevent delays in important mail for residents.