Police are warning firearms owners to keep their guns locked away after two guns were stolen from a Dargaville address yesterday.
About 2.30pm the owner of the property returned home to find that his house had been broken into and two guns and some jewellery had been stolen.
The guns, which are described as a 12 gauge shot gun with 30 inch blue barrel and a camouflage semi automatic a 12 gauge shot gun, had not been locked away.
Northland Police Operations Manager Inspector Marty Ruth says firearms owners must lock their guns away as required by the law.
"Firearms that aren't safely stored are at risk of falling into the hands of criminals."
Yesterday an Australasian wide two-week campaign, aimed at encouraging the public to report firearms in the possession of unlicensed holders, began.
This is the third time Operation Unification has been run in Australia and the first time New Zealand Police has been involved.
Mr Ruth says the Dargaville burglary is a timely reminder to keep guns safe from burglars.
"We are concerned by the number of firearms we find when executing search warrants and we need to get illicit firearms out of the hands of criminals for the safety of everyone in the community."
Mr Ruth says anyone who possesses firearms is required by law to hold a licence, so if people know anyone who holds weapons without a licence then they should report it.
People can report to Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 or call their local police station.
For media inquiries contact Northland Police Communications Manager Sarah Kennett on 09 430 4525 or 021 192 1099.