The Canterbury Police has advised owners of Mazda Demio and Toyota Aqua vehicles to be more vigilant following a series of thefts targeting these car models across the wider Canterbury area.
This aligns with a recent study by AMI, which found that the Mazda Demio was New Zealand’s most stolen car.
Detective Senior Sergeant Damon Wells said motorists should take additional preventative measures to help deter thieves from stealing their cars.
“The ignition systems in these models are not as robust as others, so once an offender gains entry to the car they can be taken relatively easily,” Wells said. “They also don't have immobilisers by default – we'd recommend that anyone who owns one of these vehicles gets one installed.”
Wells said that immobilisers cost up to $500 but these are well worth the cost, as owners will pay a similar amount in excess on their insurance if the car is stolen. It will also save the owner from the inconvenience and anguish of having their vehicle stolen and cancelling any credit cards or IDs that were in the vehicle.
“In addition, ensure valuables and credit cards are removed from vehicles at night, particularly if cars are parked in the open,” Wells said. “The best option still remains having your vehicle garaged, if possible.”
The police force said it is committed to actively investigating vehicle theft and holding offenders to account.
