Couple take cat on crime road trip

A light-fingered young couple, accompanied by their tabby cat, have been travelling around the North Island ripping off motels, hostels, camping grounds and service stations.

Detective Sergeant Russell Price of Kaikohe said the pair had been checking into accommodation, then leaving without paying and stealing items and cash.

"It is also believed they are responsible for a number of service station drive-offs," he said.

"They are currently believed to be in possession of a white Honda station wagon but have had access to several cars in recent weeks, including a white 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo," Mr Price said.

The manager of a holiday park in the Bay of Islands who was hit by the thieves around two weeks ago said the couple seemed friendly.

"There will be a few people after their blood, that's for sure," said the man, who didn't want to be named.

He said the couple took "a reasonable amount of money" from the till before fleeing.

"They were supposed to do some work around the place in return for two nights' accommodation, but took off after a night," he said.

He said he saw the couple's cat in their car on several occasions.

"It was a tabby. I think they called it Socks."

Police are urging anyone who comes into contact with the couple to call their local police station or the Kaikohe Tactical Squad on (09) 405-2960.