Police are reminding rural property owners to be vigilant, after a number of farms were targeted by thieves in Southland.
Mataura police constable Jacob Garrett said there had been vehicles stolen and burglaries in the area, and rural property owners should make security a priority.
"A lot of the reported thefts are committed by opportunists criminals looking for that insecure shed or farm vehicle with keys in the ignition," he said.
He said all regular crime prevention advice applies to a rural setting, however a few extra measures are required to help keep buildings, vehicles, machinery and stock safe.
Tips from police for rural property owners:
-Check your boundaries and fence lines on a regular basis.
-Clearly tag your animals.
-Remove keys from unattended vehicles.
-Mark or engrave tools with your licence number.
-Don't leave firearms in vehicles.
-Always lock your property and auxiliary buildings when you leave, even if it's only for a short time.
-Keep in contact with your neighbours and let one another know if you see anything unusual.
Newshub.
