Auckland police have been busy overnight responding to a spate of break-ins at cafes and bars, prompting an outpouring of frustration from politicians.
Police have launched an investigation after thieves ram-raided a store in a block of shops on Coates Avenue in Ōrākei at around 4:40am.
Police arrived at the scene shortly after, but the vehicle had fled the area.
"At this stage two stores, a cafe and a bar, have been damaged in the process," a police spokesperson said.
One of the stores that was targeted, Sebastian's Boutique Café, posted photos on its Facebook page showing the damage, which prompted an outpouring of support from the local community.
The support included National and ACT MPs and the Auckland deputy mayor who all condemned the ram raid.
"You've got to be kidding me! We were just talking about this when I popped in yesterday. Very sorry to see this on top of everything else," National MP Simon O'Connor said.
"Omg, this is dreadful! This lawlessness has to stop! ACT deputy leader Brooke van Velden said.
O'Connor and van Velden are both running for the electorate seat of Tamaki, which the café is in.
"I'm so sorry to see this. Sending big hugs. Please let me know if I can help in any way," Auckland Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson said.
The photos also show damage at neighbouring bar and restaurant Pinchos.
The spokesperson said enquiries are at the "early stages", including establishing if anything was stolen.
"A further examination at the scene will be carried out. Anyone with information can contact Police on 105 quoting the file number 230906/7273. Information can also be provided anonymously on 0800 555 111."
A burglary was also reported at an Ellerslie café on Main Highway just before 5am.
Thieves smashed a window at the café and stole a cash register.
So far no one has been arrested but a police spokesperson said officers are making further enquiries to locate those responsible.
"Police are making further enquiries into the burglary including a forensic examination at the scene," the spokesperson said.
"Anyone with information can contact 105 quoting the reference number P055928736."
Auckland police have also reported a late-night smash and grab and attempted robbery.
The first of the evening saw four offenders smash a window of a clothing store and steal a "small amount" of merchandise. The second was a failed attempted robbery at a service station in south Auckland.
