According to the survey, residents in Central Auckland are twice more likely to be burgled than anywhere else in New Zealand.
In the data gathered by the AA insurance for the past 12 months until the end of July, the national regional average of burglary claim is 51. However, in Central Auckland the number of break-ins is three times that level at 170 claims. In South Auckland, it’s 85{124a1aa5d8e75f80fb06159bb56072683769a4f491cda2c7d203e184b4224f94} higher than the average while the West was just 22{124a1aa5d8e75f80fb06159bb56072683769a4f491cda2c7d203e184b4224f94} greater. Only the North Shore had fewer claims, with 60{124a1aa5d8e75f80fb06159bb56072683769a4f491cda2c7d203e184b4224f94} below the regional average.
In the past year, Hamilton had the most number of claims but dropped this year. But the city still had 59{124a1aa5d8e75f80fb06159bb56072683769a4f491cda2c7d203e184b4224f94} claims above the average while Christchurch had 21{124a1aa5d8e75f80fb06159bb56072683769a4f491cda2c7d203e184b4224f94}. Meanwhile, Taranaki, Wellington, West Coast, Bay of Plenty, Otago, Southland, Marlborough and Canterbury regions had fewer claims than the average.
1000 New Zealanders took part in an online survey which showed that 71{124a1aa5d8e75f80fb06159bb56072683769a4f491cda2c7d203e184b4224f94} burglaries happened in daytime, than while the occupants are away for a holiday. This accounted for 17{124a1aa5d8e75f80fb06159bb56072683769a4f491cda2c7d203e184b4224f94} of burglary cases. The survey also revealed that a frightening 12{124a1aa5d8e75f80fb06159bb56072683769a4f491cda2c7d203e184b4224f94} respondents were at home when the break-ins took place.
Amelia Macandrew, AA Insurance customer relations manager said the majority of people assume that they are highly exposed to burglary when they are away from home, but this wasn’t always the case. This is because when people leave the house they are more careful, they lock all doors and windows and cancel newspaper subscription. But when they get back, they are more complacent and burglars take advantage of this opportunity. Burglars also have an eye on the easiest targets. It’s important to be prepared all the time and make sure the home is not easy to access.
Tips to Reduce the Risk of Burglary
1. Keep your valuables out of sight, particularly portable electronics, even your stereos and LCD TV. They should not be seen from outside of the house.
2. Do not make it easy for a burglar to break into your house. Lock the garden shed and put away all of your tools. If you have a security alarm, set it all the time and make sure to close the windows when leaving the house, regardless if they seem impossible to reach.
3. If you will be out at the back of the house, do not leave front doors and windows open. This will make it easier for thieves to break into the house without you knowing it. They can easily steal your small items like a handbag or wallet. Make sure that you find a secure place to keep these valuables away.
4. Get to know your neighbors, be aware of their regular hours and let them know yours.
5. If you need to be away for a long period of time, inform your neighbors, leave your contact details, and ask someone to get your mail frequently. You can also ask a neighbor to keep an eye on things and check your house every few days.
