The Rotorua District Council, police and Neighbourhood Support are resorting to giving away petrol vouchers to prevent car crime.
Rotorua residents are asked to keep an eye on their letterboxes this week for the Beat That Thief brochure and competition.
Prizes of $100 MTA vouchers will be
awarded to five people who correctly answer a question relating to the prevention of vehicle crime.
Supported by Rotorua District Council, police and Neighbourhood Support, the brochure offers key reminders about keeping vehicles safe.
Council community safety officer Juanita Seymour said many thefts from vehicles were opportunistic crimes.
"If criminals can see property inside a car, or if a vehicle is left insecure, the chance of a break-in is increased.
"Messages contained in the brochure are simple - remembering to lock your vehicle and wind up windows and taking all valuables with you when you leave your car - are great in reducing the risk of theft."
Ms Seymour said car alarms and vehicle immobilisers were also good deterrents.
Neighbourhood Support has been active in the central business district doing vehicle security checks and will pass out the reminder brochures to car owners in the central city.
Yesterday the Daily Post reported the frustration felt by Neighbourhood Support staff who often saw cars in the central city that might as well have the words "burgle me" written across the windscreen.
The group's office manager, Jannette Brown, who often walks the inner-city streets putting Beat That Thief brochures on cars, said vehicles parked at Rotorua's Government Gardens and around Polynesian Spa were the worst.
The brochures are part of Project Papa Waka, the two-year vehicle crime reduction project that has seen nearly a quarter, or 22.4 per cent, less vehicle crime at targeted locations.
