Thoughtless drivers have damaged grave sites in Manukau including that of rugby legend Peter Fatialofa.

Manukau ward councillor Alf Filipaina is pleading with drivers visiting the Manukau Memorial Gardens to take more care and not drive over grave sites.

He said it may be some drivers did not realise what they had done and he's asking them to pay attention to ensure they stick to designated driving tracks, especially at dusk, to distinguish appropriate driving areas from grass.

He said Mr Fatialofa's family have been contacted about the incident, and understood the damage was due to carelessness rather than malice.