Papamoa Police have noticed a spike in theft from vehicles at the Kaiate Falls Carpark and the Otawa Trig Carpark.

In the past ten days there have been six vehicles broken into and items stolen, says Sergeant Tristan Murray.

'Police would like to remind residents and tourists alike that it's never safe to leave items unattended in vehicles.

'These thefts have been occurring during the week and appear to be the work of a recidivist offender who is targeting the area.”

If anyone has any information in regards to the thefts please either calling anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or the Papamoa Police Station on (07) 572 2440.