Christchurch Police are renewing an appeal for information following a spate of powerline tampering and copper thefts across the region.

Acting Detective Sergeant Steph Trengrove from the Christchurch Tactical Crime Unit said the incidents have continued over recent months and pose a serious safety risk.

“This is not only frustrating when essential services are disrupted, but this also comes with a serious safety risk,” Trengrove said.

“A number of these incidents have led to power outages on affected streets, and often powerlines are left exposed.”

While nobody has yet been seriously injured while attempting to steal copper from the lines, police say the risk of serious harm or death is very high if the activity continues.

The areas most affected include McLeans Island, West Melton, Dallington, Avondale, Brooklands, and Spencerville.

“We’re urging residents in the above areas to keep an eye and an ear out for any suspicious or unusual activity or sounds,” Trengrove said.

Members of the public are also being warned not to touch exposed or damaged wires and to contact Orion immediately on 0800 363 9898.

Police are urging residents to call 111 if they see suspicious activity around power poles or lines, or 105 to report it after the fact.