Rotorua burglaries spike as we head into summer

Inspector Stu Nightingale warns Rotorua residents to lock it or lose it. PHOTO/FILE

Rotorua police are urging the public to "lock it or risk losing it" this summer.

Between November 27 and December 6 this year there were eight burglaries in the Glenholme area alone, Rotorua area prevention manager Inspector Stuart Nightingale said.

"Of the eight burglaries, three of the premises were left insecure by the occupants. Further there were two thefts from vehicles when the owners had left the vehicles insecure and a vehicle was unlawfully taken due to the keys being left inside it.

"Just because the vehicle is inside private property it does not mean that thieves will ignore them."

Mr Nightingale said people were a lot more relaxed during summer because of the warmer weather and because it was holiday season there were a lot more people around, which meant police saw a spike in burglaries at this time of year.

"We constantly see insecure vehicles parked up driveways, being targeted by thieves. The public are urged to keep their garage doors shut and locked, their cars locked and their houses secured as well, particularly if occupants are away for even a short while.

"We have all heard the saying before: 'If you aren't watching over your property, chances are someone else is'."

He said police were focusing on a number of juvenile offenders who had been active in the Glenholme community, but support from the public was needed.

Neighbourhood Support chairman Bruce Quedley said the reason there was a spike during the warmer months was because people often forgot to shut doors and windows and lock their property.

"People leave their windows and doors open to let the breeze in but unfortunately they also let the burglars in."

Mr Quedley said it was important for people to make sure they had good security and if they were going out, lock up.

"Neighbours need to get to know each other and look out for each other. Don't leave valuables lying around where they can be seen from the road as they can grow legs and walk," he said.

Anyone with relevant information on burglaries can contact Rotorua police on (07) 348 0099 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on (0800) 555 111.