Spate of car thefts in Horowhenua prompt warning from Levin police

This Mazda Demio was found at Gladstone Reserve in June.

A spate of car thefts in recent weeks in Horowhenua has prompted a warning from police for extra vigilance - especially if you own a Mazda or a Nissan.

Levin area response manager Senior Sergeant Beth Purcell said the past three weeks police has received over a dozen reports of vehicle theft and attempted vehicle theft in Levin, Foxton and Ōtaki.

Purcell said most of these have taken place overnight and the vehicles being targeted are either parked on the road or up driveways.

While a few vehicles have been left unlocked, the majority were locked and secured.

"Some of the vehicles have been recovered locally and it would appear that they have been blatantly driven, dumped and left with broken windows and damage to their ignitions," she said.

"We would like to warn car owners, particularly those with a Mazda or a Nissan, to have extra security measures in place to help prevent their vehicles from being stolen by offenders.

"Vehicle crime tends to be opportunistic and offenders look for easy targets or quick gains if they see valuables left in vehicles.

"If you do not have secure parking, we would encourage you to invest in a good quality steering wheel lock to discourage and prevent the theft of your vehicle.

"The more security measures you have in place, the harder it is for offenders to steal your vehicle and the less likely it is that you will be targeted.

"We are committed to holding those who steal vehicles to account and encourage members of the public to be vigilant of suspicious behaviour and report it immediately to police by phoning 111."

Purcell said there were a list of steps you can take to prevent your vehicle being targeted:

- Use a steering lock – these are inexpensive and a great deterrent.
- Install an immobiliser.
- Avoid leaving your vehicle parked on the street if possible and park out of sight from the road.
- If parking on the street, park in well-lit areas such as under street lights.
- Never leave any valuables in your vehicle.
- Have a car alarm installed.