In an effort to encourage the offenders to do the right thing, the University of Canterbury Students’ Association offered an amnesty if the signs were returned by noon on Friday.
The amnesty allowed them to hand over the stolen property to the Canterbury University security office without facing any penalties.
Several road cones had also been stolen.
The association posted its “grumpy” message to the offenders on social media, and alerted the community to the thefts.
According to the association, the road signs had been installed on Ilam Rd as part of its Traffic Management Plan.
The signs were to keep students safe while on the way to events.
“Got a sign or two hanging up in the flat?” the post read.
“There is an amnesty to return them - no questions asked - until midday on Friday.”
The post claimed the security office is open long hours, making it “super easy to swing by”.
“We are serious about your safety and that of others. Please think first and leave road signs and cones alone.”
The students' association was approached by NZME for further comment on the matter.
In June last year, organisers of the first-ever Selwyn Marathon face a similar issue after signs and gear were stolen during the event.
The looters took four 30-50km speed signs, four Stop/Go paddles as well as numerous KM markers and cones. Five event signs were also taken and three exclamation signs. The marathon's organisers said at the time each sign cost about $100 and the Stop/Go paddles about the same.
-By Nathan Morten
