While the lead-up to Christmas is the busiest time of the year for shops, it's also a time when shoplifters are out in force, with Northland police warning store workers to keep an eye out for thieves.
The warning comes after a Dargaville woman was arrested on Thursday for allegedly stealing 51 items worth a total of $1277 from Whangarei's Warehouse.
Northland police communications spokeswoman Sarah Kennett said this was the time of year when more shoplifting occurred and she urged store workers to be alert for thieves.
"If you see anybody suspicious or see them stealing, call police as soon as possible," she said.
Mrs Kennett said at about 6pm on Thursday a 20-year-old woman from Dargaville was arrested after officers were called to The Warehouse in Okara Shopping Centre. The woman was caught after allegedly stealing 51 items - mainly clothing - from the shop and she was charged with shoplifting, with an appearance in Whangarei District Court due.