How to keep your fuel safe: NZ Police respond to growing fears of theft

With global fuel prices continuing to climb, some Kiwis are getting nervous about fuel theft and related crimes.

NZ Police say there’s no reason for concern at this stage, but there are things we Kiwis can do to ease our minds by preventing potential theft.

Assistant Commissioner Tusha Penny, Road Policing and District Support, acknowledged public concern and has assured that the Police are monitoring the situation closely to keep communities safe.

"We understand that the global fuel situation is causing people to feel nervous and some are concerned it could lead to an increase in fuel theft and related crime," Penny said.

At this stage, it is too early to determine any notable change in offending. Police will remain visible in our communities and will respond to any incidents as they arise..

Meanwhile, Arable Group Chair for Federated Farmers, David Birkett, said there has already been a small uptake in theft. “As soon as something gets valuable, the risk of it being stolen increases significantly,” he told rova.

Penny encourages people to take proactive steps to protect themselves, their vehicles and their property.

Many modern cars already have anti-siphoning measures, but there are still ways to minimise risk. Keep your car locked in a garage. If that’s not an option, choose a well-lit spot - security or sensor lighting can help protect vehicles. A car alarm is also recommended for extra security.

For agricultural communities and businesses, a joint crime prevention guide from Police, FMG, and Federated Farmers offers steps to protect fuel on rural properties.

Some suggestions include parking vehicles with fuel caps close to a wall or another vehicle to limit access, keeping fuel out of sight, in a well-lit area and ensuring tanks are locked and secure to prevent theft or tampering.

It’s also a good idea to keep track of fuel usage so any losses can be spotted quickly.

Petrol stations/retailers can also take proactive steps to reduce risk by using pre-pay or pump pre-authorisation during higher-risk times, which helps prevent theft. Strong visibility on the forecourt and ensuring CCTV coverage is fully operating can help deter thieves.

This statement comes off the back of reports yesterday, suspecting potential “sabotage” to a Diesel fuel pipe outside of a Manurewa petrol station in Auckland.

Despite initial concerns, the situation was later confirmed to have been caused by cable cooling fluid used to insulate power cables, not a leak from the pipe, as believed when crews first arrived on the scene.

News of the government's fuel plan rolled out last week, outlining four phases to help minimise disruption while ensuring everybody has the fuel supplies they need.

As of Friday, 27th, New Zealand is in Phase 1. It means the Government is monitoring global developments, easing restrictions (such as fuel specifications), while asking consumers to voluntarily reduce usage.

With the fueling concerns, experts are urging Kiwis not to panic. Opes Partners resident economist Ed McKnight told Mai FM’s morning crew that panic buying at a time like this could actually push prices even higher if demand spikes.

For now, the advice is don’t panic. Prices may continue to affect other areas of spending, but letting panic set in will only make the situation worse.