Taranaki thieves after utes

A spate of vehicle robberies across central Taranaki has local police urging residents to be vigilant. 21 vehicles were reported stolen in 30 days, including four quad bikes and a trailer. In a statement published on Facebook, Central Districts Police said thieves are targeting Ford, Mazda and Hilux utes made between 1990 and 2000. “We ask that people take extra care to always lock their vehicles when they leave, and if possible park them in a garage or up a driveway,” the police said. “Installing immobilisers and security alarms are a great idea, as well as removing any personal items from your vehicle.” Senior Constable Peter Lawn told the Taranaki Daily Times the majority of vehicle thefts were from New Plymouth and the surrounding Inglewood and Waitara townships. Nearby towns Eltham, Stratford and Opunake were also hit by the thieves.