Following reporting by the Times this morning about local artist Joel Nicholls’ car being stolen from Howick yesterday, the vehicle has been located.

The story on the incident was shared on local community Facebook pages and drew comments from numerous readers angry at the theft.

The accomplished east Auckland artist called on locals for help after his car, which serves as his mobile art studio, was stolen from a property in Cook Street at about 12.30pm on April 14.

Joel had popped in to visit his mum before heading off to complete local mural art projects that afternoon.

Moments after arriving, he thought he heard his car start, but brushed it off. Just five minutes later, he stepped outside to find it gone.

The vehicle, a black Toyota Yaris with the registration number KUF303, has no badge and white paint on the bumper.

It once belonged to his poppa and holds immense sentimental value.

More importantly, it was filled with his entire print range, packed ready to show to local businesses, along with his full toolkit and art supplies, all essential for his work as a mural artist, Joel says.

“This car is how I make a living. Everything I use to work and showcase my art was in there. It’s just devastating.”

Witnesses reported seeing two women in the car, last spotted heading toward Botany at about lunchtime.

A police spokesperson says the vehicle has been recovered this afternoon, but sadly the news isn’t all good as Joel says its contents are missing.

“Howick staff located the vehicle on Botany Road near the Cascades Road intersection and it has been towed for forensic enquiries,” police say.

“A full examination of inside the vehicle wasn’t possible, but there was some property visible inside.

“Once the vehicle is able to be returned to the owner, the full picture will be known.”

Times Media director Bo Burns, who also shared the story about the car’s theft on social media, says she’s pleased for Joel that it’s been found but gutted his materials are gone.

“This result shows the power of a community news provider putting the word out there and it being picked up by locals.

“It’s about people sharing an important message and us coming together to support a member of our community.”

If anyone finds paint dumped anywhere in east Auckland they can contact Joel directly via Facebook here.