Euro visitors warned of rise in campervan thefts

Visitors to New Zealand are being warned about theives targeting campervans. Photo / Thinkstock.

Travel advisories have been issued in Europe that theft is on the rise in New Zealand, as more visitors tell of holidays ruined by criminals targeting campervans.

But the victims and their embassies say they will continue to recommend New Zealand as a generally safe destination.

Several European visitors have told the Herald of break-ins and thefts of their cars and campervans while touring the country.

Police said its statistics did not capture thefts from campervans and tourists, and issued a statement: "We do encourage visitors to New Zealand to take some simple crime prevention steps to minimise the opportunities for theft. These messaging are also carried on our police website."

Tourism New Zealand said it advised visitors to take the same precautions as they would in their home country.

"Unfortunately crimes involving travellers can occur and do happen around the world," said a spokeswoman.

In the past month, a group of German women had their van broken into on High St in Auckland, two French women had their van stolen from outside New World Freemans Bay, a Belgian couple had a car stolen from the carpark at Kerosene Creek, near Rotorua, and a trio of German travellers had all their belongings stolen from their van parked outside the old Auckland train station.

A travel advisory on the French Foreign Affairs website says the level of common crime remains low in New Zealand but precautions should be taken.

"Thefts from vehicles (especially motor homes and "camper vans") are increasing across the whole territory. It is therefore strongly recommended not to leave personal belongings (money, passports, documents ...) in an unattended vehicle," it says.

The German equivalent also notes an increase in car theft, "particularly in places frequented by tourists".

French Ambassador Francis Etienne said visitors were usually more troubled by the weather while tramping than by crime.

But they could let their guard down too far by thinking New Zealand was safe and peaceful, he said.

"It's our role to remind people," he said.

"We don't want to spoil the pleasure but you have to take the necessary steps to protect your security.

"We want more French to come and enjoy New Zealand ... We don't see New Zealand as a dangerous place."