When out and about in your car, don’t make it a target for theft.

According to AMI’s latest insurance data for New Zealand, there were nearly 17,000 vehicle theft claims in 2023 up from 8492 the year before, making it the second highest year for vehicle theft over the past five years. This data points to the need for a more security-minded approach by owners when leaving their vehicles unattended. Here’s some top tips to help turn would-be thieves away:

• Roll up the windows fully and lock your car, no matter where it’s parked, keeping the keys with you.
• Try to park in the driveway, or an attended, secure parking building especially after dark. If on-street parking is the only option, look for well-lit areas.
• If you need to leave items in your car, keep them in the boot – don’t have them on display.
• Install additional security to your car such as an alarm, engine immobiliser, steering lock, or keyless ignition system to help deter thieves.

No one wants to come back to a nasty surprise after a great day out. Travel safely and be aware of what you can do to reduce the risk of your car and the contents inside being stolen.