The following incidents were reported to Rotorua police during the past few days:
Blue Lake users
Police are warning users of Tikitapu (Blue Lake) near Rotorua to make sure they are familiar with the area and help any visitors who might look lost.
Rotorua police crime prevention manager Inspector BrendonKeenan said two visitors had got lost at the popular spot in the past two weeks, prompting police to be contacted.
"For locals that use and enjoy the Blue Lake you will know your way around the lake well and be familiar with the various tracks and walks. This is not always the case for visitors to our lakes, or tourists."
A British tourist went missing overnight on December 13 prompting a police search and rescue squad callout. She was found early afternoon the next day.
Another visitor, a man from Korea, took a wrong turn about two weeks ago, sparking another search and rescue callout. He was found shortly afterwards.
Keenan said although the incidents were now resolved, it was timely to remind people to take care using the lake and forest trails.
"If you see visitors or tourists ensure they are aware of the area and always tell someone where you are going, what tracks you are taking and how long you expect to be away."
Burglars Christmas shopping
There were five burglaries in Rotorua at the weekend with a majority involving small items being stolen from unlocked houses and vehicles.
Keenan said it was disappointing a lot of the reported burglaries happened because people had not locked their cars or had left windows down with valuable property on display.
Items taken include garden ornaments, bags, cellphones, wallets, keys and bicycle tyres.
"This is simply an invitation for opportunist offenders and burglars to steal your precious belongings."
The areas where this happened were Utuhina, Malfroy Rd, Te Ngae Rd, Mangakakahi, Waikite Valley, city centre, Rotorua Aquatic Centre and Te Ngae commercial premises.
Kerosene Creek popular spot for criminals
There have been several thefts reported at Kerosene Creek, a popular hot water tourist spot south of Rotorua.
Vehicles, campervans, and unattended property were all targeted with at times expensive items being stolen, Keenan said.
"Please ensure over these summer months that you safety secure all your property, hide and secure valuables and do not leave vehicles and property unattended."
He said any suspicious behaviour needed to be reported to police.
"This area will continue to be patrolled by our response and prevention units."
Stolen vehicles
The following vehicles have been stolen in Rotorua during the past few days.
A 1998, silver Honda Logo was stolen on Thursday last week from the Owhata area.
A 1994 red Toyota Corolla hatch, registration TE9033, was stolen from Ngongotaha on Thursday last week.
A 1998 grey Mitsubishi Galant registration BLC247 was stolen from Sunnybrook on Wednesday last week.
On Tuesday last week a 2013 black trailer, registration W483T, was stolen from Mamaku and a 2005 blue Holden Crewman, registration DAU534, was stolen from Western Heights.
Wanted
Police have a warrant to arrest for Levi Ward.
Levi Ward. Photo/supplied
Ward is wanted for unlawful conversion, threatening to kill, assaulting a female and theft.
