Milk theft: Woman caught with 40 crates

A woman found with more than 40 empty milk crates at her Mount Maunganui home has been arrested following the theft of more than 4000 litres of milk.

At least 2000 two-litre bottles of milk and other dairy products were stolen this month from a Totara St distribution depot. The thefts occurred on three separate occasions in one week.

Police made the arrest on Thursday, having followed enquires that led them to the woman's home. They found 42 crates. Detective Sergeant Darryl Brazier said another 50 empty crates were found at a Welcome Bay property last week.

"From people we have spoken to, we have obtained a number of crates from residential properties and made an arrest," Mr Brazier said.

"Unfortunately because of the nature of the product, we haven't found any of the actual milk bottles."

The stolen products were mostly Cow and Gate, and Meadowfresh milk.

It is believed that the dairy products were being stolen to order or being on-sold to unsuspecting buyers.

The 34-year-old woman is expected to appear in Tauranga District Court next Thursday on a receiving charge.

Yesterday, police released a picture of a man they wanted to talk to in relation to the theft.

Constable Kim Shorten said anyone who recognised Peter Mark Gillard, 51, was encouraged to contact police.

Mr Gillard's whereabouts were unknown but he was believed to have several close associates in the Auckland, Whangarei and Tauranga areas.

He also had close family ties in Te Aroha and could be driving a white 1995 Honda Ascot with a registration number of AUM895.

If anyone recognised Mr Gillard or knew of his whereabouts, they were asked to contact Tauranga police on (07) 577 4300 or anonymously on the Crimestoppers line 0800 555 111.