NZ’s most stolen cars this year

Data released by the AA, one of New Zealand’s largest motor vehicle insurers, shows that car theft is up by 36.5% in the year to 30 June 2022. Read on to find out the vehicles most frequently targeted by thieves and what to do to protect yours best.

The AA reports fewer claims for vehicle collisions during lockdowns, but theft of parked cars increased markedly, with the number of claims relating to vehicle theft increasing by 50% year-on-year.

In the year to 30 June 2022, motor vehicle theft and attempted theft have increased by more than a third (36.5%) nationally and by 43% in Auckland.

Beau Paparoa, Head of Motor Claims at AA Insurance, had the following to say in a report on the AA website. 

“Vehicles targeted tend to be at the lower end of the value chain, more than five years old and often parked on the street. While AA Insurance will always be there to help customers get back on the road if their vehicle is targeted, our claims data clearly shows that even simple security measures like a steering wheel lock can be an effective deterrent against thieves.

“Security systems and immobilisers are more expensive security options but are well worth the investment to stop thieves from targeting your vehicle, especially if it is one of the more frequently targeted models.

“With theft and attempted theft clearly on the rise, AA Insurance is encouraging all Kiwis to be extra vigilant about car security, particularly if your car is routinely parked on the street.”

These are the most frequently stolen cars according to AA Insurance claims data:

• Nissan Tiida


• Toyota Mark X


• Toyota Aqua


• Mazda Atenza


• Mazda Demio


Here are AA Insurance's top tips to help protect your vehicles from theft:

• Always lock your car, even when parking at home
• Keep all valuables and your car keys out of sight, including away from your front and back doors at home. Thieves will now steal car keys to access new vehicles with sophisticated modern security systems
• Where possible, try to park in a garage, carport or off-street
• If you have to park on the street, make sure your car is under a street light or in a well-lit area
• If in a car park, then use an attended, secure parking building and park close to the entrance or exit
• Install visible security such as an alarm light, immobiliser or steering wheel lock
• Know where your keys are at all times, and never leave them in your car, even at home
• Be extra vigilant over weekends and during warmer weather when there are more thefts reported.

What are your best tips for keeping vehicles secure? Join the conversation on our social pages Facebook and Instagram.

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