Whangärei Police are urging residents in the Kensington, Mairtown, Otangarei and Tikipunga areas to be vigilant following a number of burglaries in their areas.
Since the beginning of this month there have been 21 burglaries with some of these occurring while residents were home.
Otangarei Neighbourhood Prevention Team Sergeant John Larkin says residents need to be vigilant around security of their homes and even if they are home they need to ensure doors and windows are closed and secure.
"Most burglars are opportunists, so if they see an easy opportunity to steal anything, they will."
Mr Larkin says many of the items being stolen are portable, such as TVs, Laptops and cellphones, so if possible make sure these items are out of general view.
He says neighbours need to keep an eye on each other's properties, especially when people are away. It is also a good idea to form a Neighbourhood Support Group.
"If people notice any suspicious activity or vehicles in their area then they should contact Police. If it is a crime in progress then call 111."
Here is some information to reduce the risk of burglaries:
* Lock your doors, windows, sheds, garages, if necessary padlock farm sheds.
* Communicate with your neighbours: they can keep an eye on your address.
* If you're on holiday, arrange for someone to collect your mail and to mow lawns.
* Install sensor lights/alarms
* Remove keys from vehicles. Close access gates
* Note down suspicious registrations - often burglars will scope out an address first.
* Keep valuables out of sight.
* Record all serial numbers and photograph expensive or significant items.
The SNAP website (www.snap.org.nz) is a good way to record all your possessions.
Operation SNAP (Serial Number Action Partnership) is an initiative of the New Zealand Police, aiming to prevent New Zealand burglary and property offending, and make it harder for criminals to sell stolen goods in New Zealand. The initiative helps to protect property in a number of ways.
The SNAP website (http://www.snap.org.nz) allows you to enter and maintain details of all of your important possessions or assets. You can then access this asset list from anywhere, anytime. If your items are stolen, you can instantly retrieve your asset list details, and forward these on to the Police and your insurance company.
For media inquiries contact Northland Police Communications Manager Sarah Kennett on 09 430 4525 or 021 192 1099.