Southern District police are urging people in rural areas to remove the welcome mat for thieves.
Police are investigating thefts, with tools and ATVs among the items stolen across a wide area, from the outskirts of Invercargill to as far out as Hedgehope in Southland.
Police investigations area manager Detective Senior Sergeant Gregory Baird was urging people to report suspicious behaviour.
"We’re asking rural communities, no matter where you are, to keep an eye out. If something seems weird, tell us," he said.
Suspicious or illegal activity should be reported by calling 111 immediately if it is happening now, or by calling 105 if after the fact.
Rural crime was generally under-reported, and Det Snr Sgt Baird was urging people to change that.
