Increase in dishonesty offences at popular Northland beach destinations

Acting area prevention manager for Whangarei and Kaipara Sergeant James Calvert called on anyone who noticed suspicious behaviour to contact police immediately.

The fish are biting along Northland's east coast this summer and so are thieves.

Police are warning visitors at popular beaches and holiday homes at Matapouri, Ngunguru and Tutukaka to be extra vigilant after 14 dishonesty offences have been reported since the start of December.

Acting area prevention manager for Whangarei and Kaipara Sergeant James Calvert called on anyone who noticed suspicious behaviour to contact police immediately.

"Unfortunately, there are a few people who are ruining the good times by breaking into other people's homes and cars. The disruption this simple act of disrespect can cause is huge and can completely ruin a holiday," Mr Calvert said.

"We really want people to come here and be and feel safe. To this end we encourage people to remove all valuables from their vehicles, and report any suspicious activity like people looking into cars or loitering around houses by calling 111."

Some of the thefts included surfboards taken off a vehicle, a car broken into while parked near public toilets, dive gear and paddle boards from a car and items from a dinghy.

A car parked in a driveway was broken into and a wallet taken. A money card taken in the theft was later used at a petrol station in Whangarei.

"Remember, trust your instincts, if something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't, so let us know. Otherwise stay safe and look out for one another," Mr Calvert said.

Non-emergencies can be reported to the Whangarei Police Station on 09 430 4500 or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.