Students pitch in after college break-in

Queenstown Resort College students rallied yesterday afternoon to help clear up damage caused during a break-in over the weekend.

Chief executive Charlie Phillips said while there was significant damage, it could have been a lot worse.

"At the end of the day, it's just three broken windows. There's a couple of door handles [damaged], but every classroom's fine.''

He confirmed nothing has been stolen during the incident. He checked the entire building and all computers were "where they should be''.

Queenstown police found blood in some of the damaged rooms, suggesting the culprits injured themselves during the break-in.

Mr Phillips believes they definitely exited through the cafe.

"I'd say they've found themselves stuck. The doors sort of go into lockdown [and] they just started punching their way out.''

He did not want to speculate on whether it was a drunken rampage but said it was very disappointing.

The break-in has prompted a review of the college's security systems. It has alarms but no CCTV.

About 10 students gathered at the college on afternoon to help clear up, after police finished processing the scene.

A police press statement said a significant amount of damage was done to rooms and property inside the building.

They are appealing for information on anyone who arrived home with an unexplained injury.

The school reopened today as usual.

● Dunedin police (03) 471-4800, Crimestoppers 0800 555-111.

- Louise Scott & Philip Chandler