Warmer temperatures mean vehicle thefts and attempted thefts are on the rise.

Over the past 10 days, there have been eight attempted break-ins and three vehicles stolen in Whakatāne and the surrounding area.

A green Mitsubishi L200 (registration WQ3762) was stolen from the driveway of a Riverside Drive property on January 7, a grey Nissan Tiida (JGM72) was stolen from the side of McGarvey Road on January 9 and a red Holden ute (DKM544) was stolen from the Awakeri Hot Pools on January 11.

There have also been multiple vehicle break-ins with attempted thefts of vehicles reported in Spence Lance, Hawera Street, Apanui Avenue, Victoria Avenue, Peace Street and Martin Place.

Other vehicles have been broken into with items stolen including a subwoofer and mats stolen from a Mazda Axela parked at the Hub overnight and power tools stolen from a tradesman’s van on McKenzie Street, Tāneatua.

It’s not only cars that are the target of thieves with a dirt bike stolen from Tahuna Road, a boat stolen from Harbour Road, and a commercial fishing boat broken into at the wharf. Number plates have also been taken from vehicles parked at Thornton Beach and Pikowai.

Community constable Rob Jones said the thefts and break-ins were occurring at all times of the day and night.

He said people could take preventive measures to keep their vehicles safe including using a steering wheel lock and parking under a streetlight if possible. They should also always make sure they lock their vehicle.

To report sightings of the stolen vehicles, call 105. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.