Police warn backpackers about credit card thief

Kaikoura police have issued a warning to backpackers and hostels after the theft of credit cards.

A man identified as Tony Gorrie stole two credit cards from a backpacker's hostel in Kaikoura this morning and used them in Cheviot and Kaiapoi today.

Sergeant Ramon Smith of the Kaikoura Police, says Gorrrie is believed to be heading south.

He is described as a tall solid caucasian male with a shaven head.

He has a distinctive tattoo of three skulls on his chest and lower neck.

He also has a scorpion tattoo on the right side of his neck.

Anyone with any information on Gorrie's whereabouts is asked to contact their nearest police station.

- NZ HERALD STAFF