Police are issuing a reminder to the Rodney community to be vigilant with items being stolen from building sites and new builds.

Waitematā North Police have seen an increase in Gas califonts being stolen recently.

Area Prevention Manager Senior Sergeant Roger Small says they are simple to remove and easy to on sell in places such as Facebook Marketplace.

“We are seeing an increase in the theft of these units, predominately from homes that are currently under construction.

“These homes are often easy to access as they are not yet properly secured, giving would be thieves an easy entrance.”

Potential prevention measures include but are not limited to:

-Installing a security bracket, which can be fitted into the back of the califonts and make it much harder to be removed. Such brackets can be purchased with the unit, or from most hardware shops for a small cost. “These brackets would significantly slow down offenders, making your property a less attractive target,” Senior Sergeant Small says.

- Install the califont as late in the building process as possible as an occupied dwelling is far less appealing to offenders.

- CCTV is a fantastic deterrent and investigative tool.

Top tips: 

• Record serial numbers (either write it down or take a photo) – as we recover stolen property regularly.

• Is it too good to be true? Items sold online at a cheap price may be stolen property! 

• Report offending to Police online • Be vigilant – if you see suspicious activity call Police on 111

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

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