Four French tourists detained after taking baubles from Dunedin Christmas tree

Wednesday 17 December 2025 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated Wed 17 Dec 2025, 10:49am

Police intercepted four French nationals, aged between 21 and 23, in Dunedin's Octagon at approximately 2.30am on Wednesday. The group allegedly removed baubles from the city's Christmas tree. It is unlikely that the tourists will face charges for the incident.

How they headlined it

10:26am10:49am

1. Otago Daily TimesWed 17 Dec 2025, 10:26am

   Grinch tourists nick Octagon Xmas tree baubles (opens in new tab)

2. StuffWed 17 Dec 2025, 10:49am

   Tourists ‘playing soccer’ with baubles off city’s Christmas tree unlikely to be charged (opens in new tab)