For our latest safety information, see the Be Safe, Feel Safe booklet.
Property crime can have a devastating impact. Here are some simple steps you can take to make your home and property as safe as possible:
- Always lock your car, motorbike, bicycle or other vehicles. A car alarm, steering lock, or good quality chains are extra deterrents too. Ideally keep all vehicles in a garage or out of sight.
- When out and about, keep your belongings secure and close to you. Separate your house and car keys, especially if you have an address on the key ring.
- Don’t provide places for burglars to hide - keep bushes and trees trimmed.
- Don’t answer the door for someone you don’t know or don’t want in your home. Ask for identification if they say they represent a company. If you’re outside for an extended time, e.g. in the garden, lock your front door.
- Keep valuables out of sight - If it can be seen, it can be a target. Keep receipts, warranties, valuations and serial numbers in a safe place. Take photos or videos of jewellery, art and other precious items.
- Secure your doors, windows, sheds and garages with good quality locks. Install security stays on windows, especially those on ground level.
Protect your tools
Do not leave your tools or valuables in your vehicle overnight. Instead, keep them secure and out of sight. Only buy tools from reputable businesses - if the price sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Other tips include:
- Engrave: Engrave your tools with your driver’s licence number - that way, if found, they are easier to return to you.
- Record: Record the serial numbers of your tools and keep the list in a safe place.
- Secure: Always secure your tools using good, strong locks.
- Report: Report any suspicious activity to Police.
Safer communities together
A connected community is a safe community. Make your community a safer place by getting to know your neighbours.
- Help out your neighbours when they are going away, e.g. by bringing in their mail, mowing their lawn, or parking in their driveway. A “lived in” house is less likely to get burgled.
- Find ways to connect and bring your neighbours together. Discuss issues affecting your community.
- Look out for your neighbours and reach out to people who may not have a support network.
- If you’re concerned about the welfare of someone in your community, don’t hesitate to let Police know.
Further information and support
Neighbourhood Support
Neighbourhood Support works with Police to bring neighbourhoods together to create safe, resilient and connected communities. To learn more about starting or joining a Neighbourhood Support group, visit or call:
www.neighbourhoodsupport.co.nz | 0800 4 NEIGHBOURS
Victim Support
Victim Support provides a free and confidential, nationwide support service for people affected by crime and trauma. Support Workers provide someone to talk with after a traumatic event, as well as practical information and support to answer your questions, connect with other services, or participate in the justice process.
victimsupport.org.nz | 0800 842 846 - 24 hours
Crime prevention videos
Protect your stuff video
The following video has some helpful tips to keep your home safe from burglars.
Protect your vehicles video
An informative video with tips on how to keep your vehicles secure.