9 Jan 2014

Thieves target cars, baches during holidays

11:03 am on 9 January 2014

A spate of thefts and burglaries in the Far North since Christmas has prompted a call by police for holidaymakers to take extra care.

Senior Sergeant Chris McLellan said criminals had been targeting homes and baches particularly in Paihia, Kaikohe, Mangonui and Kaitaia.

A rise in the number of car thefts and break-ins throughout Northland has also been recorded.

Mr McLellan said thieves are taking the opportunity to strike while there are so many visitors over summer.

Police were asking people to take basic precautions, such as locking up their homes and valuables if they head to the beach and asking neighbours to keep an eye on their properties.