Spate of thefts from vehicles

LOCK IT OR LOSE IT: Police are warning people not to leave valuables in isolated parked cars. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

A spate of carpark thefts have left police concerned and prompted a warning to people to "lock it or lose it".

Hawke's Bay Police have seen an expected increase in thefts from cars as the weather heats up and people leave vehicles parked in scenic spot carparks.

Inspector Dean Clifford said December traditionally saw a rise in people visiting popular walking tracks or parks around the region, which was usually accompanied by an increase in thefts from vehicles.

"Carparks at Maraetotara Falls, Pakowhai Park and Te Mata Peak have already been hit by thieves in recent weeks and we expect the trend to continue as more people head outdoors and explore the region.

"This is a busy time for thieves who will target these rural carparks for any number of valuable items they can lay their hands on," Mr Clifford said.

"Items left in consoles and on seats in full view are an open invitation to thieves, so don't give them the opportunity to steal."

While some carparks have "lock it or lose it" signs on display, many people ignored them and continued to leave wallets, bags, clothing, money and cellphones in full view of anyone walking by.

During a recent random visit to the main carpark on Te Mata Peak, police found several vehicles that were insecure and had valuable items inside easily seen by passers-by.

One car had partially opened windows and had a bulging wallet in the middle console and a handbag in the passenger seat footwell.

It was parked next to a pile of broken car window glass left behind after a previous theft from a car.

"The car occupants may as well have put a sign up saying 'come and steal here'," Mr Clifford said.

In a recent theft a campervan parked at the Maraetotara Falls carpark was broken into and several items stolen.

The suspected thieves were described as three male and two female Maori aged about 18-20.

-If you see anyone acting suspiciously around vehicles, especially in isolated carparks, ring police immediately on 111. If possible, take down vehicle registration numbers.