With Auckland's border finally open and silly season upon us, many Kiwis will be going away for the Christmas holidays.
But The Insurance Council of New Zealand is urging people to take precautions before to avoid being burgled.
"Christmas Kirihimete is unfortunately a time of year when empty homes, full cars and perhaps being off our guard while staying away means more opportunities for burglaries and accidental loss or damage," ICNZ Chief Executive Tim Grafton warns.
People wanting to avoid falling victim to holiday thefts can take some precautions, Grafton says.
"Contents insurance not only covers us if we're burgled, but for accidental damage or for major events like fires, earthquakes and flood. It often also covers you for accidental damage to someone else's property, say if you were to knock over a poorly placed BBQ, or damage someone else's property at a campground.
"Contents insurance is also important if things are stolen from your car when on holiday."
Grafton says contents insurance is a good start, but not the only way to keep your belongings safe.
"There's lots you can do to keep your things secure over the festive season. At home, don't advertise on social media that you are, or will be, away and try to leave your home looking lived in by having neighbours clear your mailbox and keeping an eye on your home," he says.
"Fit an alarm and keep valuables out of sight. Security cameras are increasingly affordable and are a great deterrent.
"Every Christmas, insurers payout to put things right following thefts, loss and damage. No matter how smooth the claims process might be, it'll never be as relaxing as not having to claim in the first place and keeping your possessions."
