Within our group it had drawn serious conflict whether graffiti should even be associated. It was a really stressful time, especially for my ex, this isn't the first time I've been bullied for Urbex. Back in 2008 I was attacked online and someone put fake naked pictures on a forum and tried to say they were of me.
I do leave my name in a place sometimes when I explore, if that makes me a vandal, that's your opinion. Urban Exploration doesn't have a code of conduct (nor do we have any, were all grown up's and trust one another) it only takes common sense to do this hobby. I have never once cited 'take only photos leave only pictures' because I'm an explorer not photographer. I don't think you could find anyone else who would respect abandoned places more than myself in this country. After all I started this group. I do like to bend the rules and do things differently, it’s an illegal hobby. Can't put rules on that.
My Nana ended up in Wellington hospital mid last year (old girl nearly died on me) and I pretty much had a break down, were quite close and I grew up with her. I contacted one of the members of the group and after many emails exchanged they removed the videos. I still get casual Facebook message from one of the members. It's like common banter now. But it hasn't always been and online bullying really is degrading and pathetic. NetSafe tell me that currently there is legislation going through Parliament for a bill called the Harmful Digital Communications Bill, which will (if it is passed in the form it is currently suggested) strengthen measures able to be taken against people who harass and harm people online. Fingers crossed! The thing that troubles me the most about the behaviour of this Wellington Urbex group is, where really big on anti-bullying in NZ.
I hope these people aren't role models or have children.
Nathan,