Napier man charged with boat theft

A 30-year-old Napier man has been charged with the theft of three boats. PHOTO/FILE

A 30-year-old Napier man has been charged with the theft of three boats collectively worth around $80,000.

The man is alleged to have stolen boats from a Bay View property, Hawke's Bay Seafoods and Hawke's Bay Marine over the last few weeks. The boat stolen from HB Marine was brand new and worth $30,000. The man is alleged to have sold the boats for between $500-$1500.

Two of the boats were found in Raupunga near Wairoa while the third one was found in Palmerston North.

The man is also alleged to have stolen two vehicles that he used to tow the stolen boats to their buyers.

The man is currently remanded in custody at HB Regional Prison on other matters and is due to reappear in the Hastings District Court on 4 April. He now faces extra charges of theft of a boat, three, and burglary, three.

Four other males are facing receiving charges in relation to the boat thefts.

Detective Constable Steve Leonard said police had been investigating the theft of six boats recently. Three are still outstanding, including one that was taken from a property in Lanark Cres, Tamatea.

"We're very keen to hear from anyone who has knowledge of these boat thefts around Hawke's Bay. Someone will know who is responsible for these so we urge people to come forward with information that may help us find the offenders," Mr Leonard said.

"Likewise, if you see anyone behaving suspiciously around boats police should be called immediately."

Anyone with information about the boat thefts should contact Mr Leonard at HB Police on 06 8310700 or information can be left anonymously on Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.