"New Zealand has a large number of ageing, imported cars, and our claims show that older models, which have less-advanced or no security features than newer vehicles, are easy targets for thieves," said Suzanne Wolton, Head of Customer Relations, AA Insurance.
"Whether your car is an older import or not, there are some simple things you can do to make your car less attractive to thieves," said Suzanne. "Install an alarm, a steering lock or consider an immobiliser and make sure it's in view. Thieves will always go for the easiest, fastest option, so if you make it just a little bit harder for them then chances are they'll lose interest in your car and move on to an easier target."
Despite vehicle theft remaining a concern, it's reassuring to know that theft has decreased by more than 13,000 cars over the last four years. New Zealand Police crime statistics report that there were 48,301 motor vehicle thefts and related offences in 2012/2013, compared to 55,618 in 2011/2012, 58,299 in 2010/2011, and 61,363 in 2009/2010.
While it's unsurprising to find higher vehicle theft rates in larger cities, AA Insurance observed that the probability of having your car stolen in the Northland region was actually higher than in some larger cities. Based on the theft incidence rate of all AA Insurance car claims made over the past four years, a vehicle is most likely to be stolen from the Auckland region, followed by Northland, Wellington, Waikato and then Christchurch. South Island regions - excluding Christchurch - appear to have the lowest vehicle theft rate. A vehicle is almost eight times more likely to be stolen in Auckland than in the South Island (bar Christchurch).
"While vehicles parked in a driveway or on the street outside an owner's home have always been a target for thieves, our claims data has revealed a recent increase in the number of vehicles taken from these suburban areas. So the best chance of keeping your vehicle safe is to park it in a garage or carport," said Suzanne.
"It's in our customers' interest to make their cars as difficult to steal as they can, which spares them not only from the trauma and inconvenience of a theft, but also helps keep insurance as affordable as possible," said Suzanne.
"If you're going to park on the street then it pays to park under a street light where your car - and a potential thief - is easier to see. If using a car park, leave your vehicle near the attendant or in front of a security camera where you know it will be seen."
"One of the best and easiest things you can do is to lock your car, even when it's at home or parked in the garage," said Suzanne. "You should also know where your keys are at all times and never leave them out in the open or in the car, even when at home. Over the last few months we've noted an increase in the number of vehicles stolen after thieves have accessed the keys, to avoid being stumped by modern security systems."
In one example a customer was at home when burglars broke in. Among the items taken were the car keys for her $19,000 Ford Fiesta. The car was parked in the driveway at the time but the thieves left without taking it. However they returned the next day, and stole the car while the customer was upstairs.
AA Insurance tips for preventing car theft
•Always lock your car, even when parking at home
•Keep all valuables and your car keys out of sight, including away from your front and back doors
•Where possible try to park in a garage, carport or off-street
•If you have to park on the street make sure your car is under a street light or in a well-lit area
•If you have to park in a car park then use an attended, secure parking building if possible and park close to the entrance or exit
•Install visible security such as an alarm light, immobiliser or steering lock
•Never leave your keys in the car or your car running when unattended
•Be extra vigilant over weekends and during warmer weather when there are generally more thefts reported
