A Whangarei liquor store is changing the game of catching thieves by running social media giveaways.
Liquorland Tikipunga has taken to Facebook to nab store thieves by posting security camera grabs of the alleged culprits, encouraging followers to share the photos by offering a prize. However, the competitions are not endorsed by company management.
According to the Liquorland Tikipunga Facebook page, at least two competitions had been run and everyone who shared the photo of the alleged thieves went into a draw to win prizes. It was not clear what the prizes were.
A photo of a man from security camera footage, believed to have stolen from the store, was posted on the page this week and went "viral". "That took ages but have managed to put all in the draw, because it went viral we have drawn 3 lucky winners we have pm'd you so please check your messages thanks again." (sic.)
The page said a male and female had been named by Facebook followers and their details forwarded to police. "We are blown away with the support of you awesome people out there & shows we all won't put up with the few people who spoil it for our beautiful city, also the support from around NZ that has jumped on this waka we can't thank you all enough for the support! Cheers." (sic.)