Police are warning people to lock their cars after some theft ex-car and stolen car incidents overnight.

Last night a car was parked and left unlocked on a driveway at Maungaturoto.

This morning the owner discovered it had been stolen. On Wednesday about 3pm a car was parked on Clark Road, Kamo.

It was left unlocked and yesterday afternoon the owner discovered that his wallet had been stolen from the glove box.

About midnight last night a van was parked on Fourth Avenue in Whangarei.

It was left unlocked and the owner was woken by his dog and then saw a man run past his window.

The owner went to check his van and found the doors and glove box were open.

A number of items were stolen from the van.

Whangarei/Kaipara Area Prevention Manager Senior Sergeant Cliff Metcalfe says thieves will take any opportunity given to them.

"Thieves have been known to attempt to get into several vehicles and when they find one that is unlocked they will either steal it or steal items that have been left inside the vehicle. Please lock your vehicles even if you are leaving it for a short while.

Thieves can steal items from cars even when they are parked at petrol stations and left unattended.

They are very quick and you only have to turn your back and they have run off with your wallet, cellphone or any other valuable items."

Mr Metcalfe also reminds people to be aware of their personal security after a woman had her handbag stolen from her while she was walking towards her car on Park Road in Kensington last night.

"Be aware of your surroundings and keep your personal items as secure as possible on your person."

Mr Metcalfe says if someone is a victim of or witness to crime such as a theft or robbery they need to get as many details as possible of the offender (clothing, build and height) and any vehicles they may be driving (make, model, colour and registration number).

Source: New Zealand Police.