Christchurch Police are asking vehicle owners to keep security front of mind after a number of vehicle thefts recently.

In particular, Canterbury police say they’ve noticed a rise in the theft of Toyota Hiluxes and Land Cruisers, with more than twice the number of these vehicles having been stolen in July and August than over the same period the year before.

Police are reminding owners to make sure vehicles are locked.

“Use a steering lock or alarm if you have one, and GPS tracking if you have it.”

“Park off street or in your garage if you can and in well-lit areas, and never leave valuables unattended in your car. “

If you’re the victim of a vehicle theft report it by phoning 105, or you can report it online at police.govt.nz/105support.