Police Notebook: Burglars swam in pool before breaking into home

The following incidents were reported to Rotorua police during the past few days:

Widespread burglaries
Rotorua police area prevention manager Inspector Brendon Keenan said over Friday and the weekend there were eight burglaries.

They included a Glenholme theft in which the offenders borrowed towels off the line after having a swim in the pool at the property on Sunday afternoon.

The offenders appeared to have used a large rock to smash the glass and stole a watch from inside the home.

In Pukehangi offenders broke into a home through an unsecured rear bedroom window.

They took three rings and a Pandora bracelet, valued at over $1000, before leaving on a bike stolen from the back of the house.

Multiple items were taken from a Springfield address overnight on Friday.

The property owner arrived home on Saturday and a stolen vehicle was parked in the driveway. Two Maori man told him they were helping his tenant to move out.

A Panasonic 50" TV, MySky box, Panasonic blu ray player, Denon receiver, four Denon speakers, a Stihl MS 171 chainsaw, meat from the freezer, tinned food from the cupboard and a large wicker-style dog basket were taken.

Another quiet week for police
Overall the offences for the past week were low.

Keenan said there were fewer than 160 offences, which is a 20 per cent fall in crime.

"Family violence was also really low, volume-wise, there were less than 60."

He said considering such offences could get up to 100 that was a significant decrease.

Road policing unit focused on state highways
A focus on State Highways has seen good results for the road policing unit.

Keenan said they had "more than 135 enforcement interactions with the public".

"They are targeting all of the driving offences which can cause injuries or death.

"[They are] really focusing on the fatal five areas of speed, drink/drug driving, restraints, dangerous/careless driving and high-risk drivers."

Good catch
Police made a good catch on Sunday.

A "prolific suspect" wanted for a number of thefts from tourist hot spots around Rotorua was arrested and charged.

The man was known to police and was apprehended in Auckland.

Outstanding vehicles
A blue 1998 Nissan Navara, registration WT98, taken from Miro Dr, Murupara.

A blue 2017 Honda NCH motorcycle, registration B8MPA, taken from Hinemaru St, Rotorua.

The licence plate DPE529 taken from Te Ngae Rd, Ngapuna.

Any information on any of the above incidents can be given to Rotorua police (07) 349 9590 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.