The data shows Toyota Aquas are disproportionately targeted, with 54 theft claims per 1000 insured vehicles, nearly four times the rate of the Toyota Corolla, which recorded 15 per 1000.
Auckland recorded the highest number of car thefts followed by Canterbury, Waikato, Wellington, and the Bay of Plenty.
AMI’s executive general manager of claims, Steph Ferris, said the number of stolen vehicle claims had declined from a peak in 2023, due to factors such as lower overall crime levels and more sophisticated security systems in newer cars.
“Older vehicles often lack modern, electronic encrypted locking systems, making them easier for thieves to compromise,” Ferris said.
AMI noted nearly 90% of stolen cars last year were more than 10 years old.
Police also advised Kiwi car owners to take preventive steps to protect their vehicles from theft.
“There are quick jobs that can be as simple as ensuring your vehicle is locked and, if possible, securely parked overnight,” said national communities prevention and partnerships manager Inspector Brett Callander.
“This can mean parking in a well-lit area, or in off-street parking, like a garage or carport.”
Callander also recommended basic steps such as removing valuables, installing a steering wheel lock, car alarm or immobiliser, and setting up CCTV near where vehicles are parked.
“Investing in any method of prevention is better than having your vehicle unlawfully taken, as they are expensive to replace and inconvenient to go without,” he said.
The AMI top 10 stolen cars list *
Toyota Aqua (=)
Toyota Corolla (=)
Nissan Tiida (=)
Mazda Demio (=)
Toyota Vitz (+2)
Toyota Hilux (=)
Subaru Impreza (+1)
Mazda Atenza (-3)
Toyota Mark X (=)
Mazda Axela (=)
* Cars are ranked from highest frequency of theft to lowest. Symbols indicate rank movement compared to 2024.
The Toyota Aqua was named New Zealand's most stolen car for the fourth consecutive time.
The most frequently stolen vehicle in each region (regions ranked by claims volume)
