Warmer weather pulls Kiwis into their backyards. They might leave their back door open. They might crack the garage door ajar for airflow. They might sleep with the windows open. They might pop down to the dairy and leave their bike unlocked.
Unfortunately, the tropes of a Kiwi summer somewhat rely on kindness and honesty. Yet, nowadays, summer is prime time for opportunistic thieves. That casual summer vibe is something these robbers know of and prey on.
And so, the police want New Zealanders to be aware of the threat of burglaries over the summer months. Inspector Kelly Farrant, Acting Waitematā District Prevention Manager, says offenders often look for easy opportunities at this time of year. She urges people to take simple steps to deter them.
Burglaries can happen at any time, even in broad daylight when you’re at home, she warns. “Many involve forced entry through windows and doors where offenders take advantage of insecure premises. Good weather often means open doors and windows, which makes homes more vulnerable.”
Police advise locking doors and windows when you leave a room or head to bed, using window stays to allow ventilation while keeping windows secure, and closing curtains at night. It also helps to get to know your neighbours and let them know if you are going away.
Christmas time means gifts. Farrant says it’s important that you keep these presents out of sight of windows and don’t leave them visible in vehicles, or they might not be opened by whom you intended.
“If you’re expecting parcels and can’t be home, arrange delivery to a friend, family member, or a secure location,” she says.
Maintaining the lived-in look while you’re on holiday can help. “If you’re heading away, ask someone to clear your letterbox regularly – an overflowing mailbox is a clear sign no one’s home.”
Timers for interior lights, arranging for bins to be put out, and keeping gardens maintained can reduce the appearance of vacancy.
They also recommend recording the serial numbers of high-value items and photographing valuables, which helps officers recover property if a burglary occurs.
Alongside parcel security, police advise avoiding broadcasting holiday plans or travel dates on social media. Public posts about being away from home can inadvertently alert offenders to an empty property.
H2: Worksites are more vulnerable
Construction sites and new housing developments are another target. “Tools and building materials left unsecured are an obvious target, and with the Christmas break approaching, we encourage tradies and site owners to take extra precautions.”
She advises workers to secure tools and new materials, install temporary fencing where possible, and consider security cameras or lighting to help deter offenders.
“Site owners should also ensure external fixtures such as hot water systems and other valuable items are secured.”
Police also urge vigilance around vehicles, as cars and utes are frequent targets over summer. Even quick stops can create an opportunity.
They recommend always locking your vehicle, taking your keys with you, removing valuables from sight, and parking in well-lit or secure areas whenever possible. Visible deterrents such as steering-wheel locks can also help discourage would-be thieves.
Spare keys should never be hidden in or around a vehicle, and tradies are advised to remove tools overnight and store them somewhere secure.
Police add that car keys should be kept away from home entry points, where offenders can quickly grab them.
Residents are encouraged to report suspicious behaviour promptly, even if it seems minor. Police emphasise that quick reporting helps patrols respond effectively and builds a clearer picture of offending patterns in local areas.
They also encourage people to use official channels such as 105 or Crime Stoppers rather than posting incidents solely on social media, where reports can be missed.
