The team was made aware early last Wednesday when the sculptures were checked each morning.
CCTV footage revealed what happened.
“It’s very upsetting and of course it’s very upsetting to the artist who’s put all this work in.
“We would just be so happy and relieved to have it back and have it back undamaged.”
Tiori Toru features glass and resin native birds in a pōhutukawa slab.
Tiori Toru by artist Karin de Beer has gone missing from its spot at the Whangārei Town Basin. Photo / Hundertwasser Art Centre with Wairau Māori Art Gallery
De Beer said she was “very disappointed” and wanted to see the piece returned.
It was the newest addition to the art centre’s outdoor sculpture exhibition on July 1.
Day said the pieces are contracted to be in place for a year.
The idea was to display art outside a gallery setting for the community to see sculptures outdoors.
She said the art centre and artists placed trust in the community that work wouldn’t be damaged or stolen.
“We really hope it’s not going to put other artists off,” she said.
“It’s a piece loved by everybody.”
Day encouraged anyone with information to contact the centre or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Police have been approached for comment.
Brodie Stone covers crime and emergency for the Northern Advocate. She has spent most of her life in Whangārei and is passionate about delving into issues that matter to Northlanders and beyond.