Tree trimming crooks cut through west Auckland

Police in Waitakere City are urging homeowners to be wary of chainsaw-wielding con artists.

The scam involves a couple who knock on doors offering to trim trees.

After cutting the trees, they collect their pay, telling the homeowner they will return to clear up the cuttings. But they never do.

Police say the couple, with a baby in their car, may have operated the same scam on the North Shore before moving on to Waitakere City.

Homeowners are advised to insist on identification and a telephone number before employing anyone, and not to pay until the work is completed.