Car rooftop tents – easy pickings?

Police believe there is a group on Auckland’s North Shore that is using power tools to cut away car rooftop tents attached to roof racks.

In a Stuff article, the police said that in the past 12 weeks there has been an alarming uptick in such burglaries. During that time 10 such thefts were reported, amounting to around one-half of all such 2023 incidents.

Police are urging the public to be wary when buying secondhand rooftop tents as some may have been stolen. If the item is cheaper than what it should be then the chances are it has been dubiously acquired. The police suggest asking for a receipt to ensure the item was purchased legally.

They added that those who enjoy the outdoors should ensure they keep their tents safe. They suggested removing the tent from the vehicle when it is not being used. The alternative is to park the vehicle in a locked garage. The police also suggested installing a tracking device in the tent.