Shoppers warned of fake cash circulating in Bay

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Police are warning Bay retailers to keep a vigilant eye out after recent reports of counterfeit bank notes circulating the North Island.

Counterfeit notes have been $20, $50 and $100 denominations.

Police said offenders have gone into shops and supermarkets purchasing a small item using a large denomination note then receiving legitimate cash as change.

Retailers should be alert to this practice, especially over the busy Easter weekend, said Senior Sergeant Simon King said in a statement.

Mr King said if retailers are suspicious about cash being used in their shops, they should take the following action: Consider refusing to accept the note, record the description of the person offering it, record the number plate and description of any vehicles used by the person, call Police on either their local number or 111, preferably while the person is still in or near the shop.

Retailers should also consider their own safety first when dealing with such people.

For information to help identify counterfeit notes, visit the Reserve Bank of New Zealand website and look under "notes and coins", where they will find information on how to spot a counterfeit note (www.rbnz.govt.nz).