Tourists targeted in Rotorua

A backpacker hostel owner wants the tourism industry to admit Rotorua has a serious problem with crime against tourists.

The owner of Funky Green Voyager said Rotorua's reputation as a safe destination had been badly damaged by crime against visitors.

Gerard Telfer said if more people were prepared to talk about the issues, more action would be taken by police and other agencies to find solutions.

About 18 months ago, his hostel was constantly targeted by thieves who broke into visitors' cars and stole their belongings. He installed security cameras and the number of break-ins had been greatly reduced.

But more accommodation providers needed to be upfront with tourists about the risks, he said.

Rotorua's Community Watch stopped patrolling the central business district after Christmas because of funding concerns.