Northland’s most stolen cars: The top 10 list

New insurance claims data released by AMI this week revealed that the Toyota Corolla was the most stolen make and model of vehicle in Northland. Photo / File

Was your car stolen last year?

Then it might just be on the hit list – AMI’s 2025 compilation of the country’s most stolen cars.

In Northland, the Toyota Corolla, the country’s most insured vehicle, was the most frequently stolen vehicle yet again.

The compilation also showed thieves favoured smaller runabouts, such as the ever-reliable Nissan Tiida, the Mazda Demio, Toyota Aqua and Vitz.

Meanwhile, the farmer’s favourite, Toyota Hilux, came in at the third most stolen in the region.

The Corolla was also the most stolen in Taranaki, Waikato, Wellington and the Bay of Plenty, and 15 per 1000 had a theft claim.

Steph Ferris, executive general manager for AMI claims, said older vehicles were popular among thieves, with nearly nine in 10 stolen vehicles countrywide being older than 10 years.

“Older vehicles often lack modern, electronic encrypted locking systems, making them easier for thieves to compromise.”

She said car alarm systems, immobilisers, fuel cut out switches, steering wheel or handbrake locks, as well as parking behind a locked gate if a garage is not available, were all anti-theft measures.

Despite peaking in 2023, vehicle theft claims had reduced over the last few years, Ferris said.

“Lower crime rates, improved security systems in newer vehicles, and New Zealanders adopting security practices – including being more mindful about where they park – likely play a part in this.”

While 64% of stolen vehicles were eventually recovered, only 40% were repairable – meaning a majority of owners lost their car entirely.

With thieves continuing to favour everyday vehicles, insurers are urging owners to rethink what they’re doing to keep their vehicles safe – especially when driving older models still common across the region.

Northland’s most stolen vehicles in 2025

1. Toyota Corolla
2. Nissan Tiida
3. Toyota Hilux
4. Mazda Demio
5. Toyota Aqua
6. Mazda Atenza
7. Nissan Navara
8. Toyota Vitz
9. Ford Ranger
10. Mitsubishi Triton

Tips for vehicle safety

• Park down a driveway or inside a garage where possible, or park your car in a well-lit area
• Consider anti-theft measures, like a car alarm system, fuel cut out switch, steering wheel lock or a car tracking system
• Place GPS tags inside your vehicle to assist police in tracking it
• Always lock your car, especially when it’s parked and unattended
• Do not leave valuables on display
• Avoid leaving windows or the sunroof open when you’re not in the car
• Don’t get out of your car and leave the engine running or with the keys in
• Always lock your car doors when driving and keep windows up in low-speed areas

Brodie Stone covers crime and emergency for the Northern Advocate. She has spent most of her life in Whangārei and is passionate about delving into issues that matter to Northlanders and beyond.