While Santa might be the only visitor, you’re expecting down the chimney, last Christmas 5,746 property burglaries were reported - up from 5,414 the year before.

If you’re reading this newsletter, we’ll assume you already have the good sense to lock your doors, windows, sheds, garages, and anything else with a hinge before heading out.

Here are a few other ways to keep your home off a burglar’s wish list:

Surveillance Cameras

• Insurance is the ambulance at the bottom of the hill; a camera is the fence at the top. A visible camera - real or otherwise - can encourage would-be burglars to “shop” elsewhere.

Fake cameras count too

• A convincing dummy camera or even a branded security sticker can work wonders. Sometimes illusion is everything.

Hide temptation

• Keep valuables, parcels, and gadgets out of sight. No need to gift burglars’ ideas for Christmas.

Don’t gift-wrap your spare key

• Under the doormat or plant pot? They know. We know. Everyone knows!

• Instead, use a lockbox hidden elsewhere on your property or trust a spare key to a neighbour.

Clear the letterbox

• Nothing screams “We’re away!” like a mailbox exploding with flyers and community newspapers. Consider pausing mail delivery and pop a “No Junk Mail” sign up for good measure.

Curb-side recycling caution

• Boxing Day might be the happiest day of the year for burglars - nothing says “new gadgets inside” like pristine packaging on the curb. A quick trip to the refuse centre keeps prying eyes guessing.

Clean up outside

• Tidy up ladders, tools, furniture, and bins. Trim trees and shrubs near windows. You’re removing both tools and hiding spots for burglars - and making the garden look great, too.

Install sensor lighting

• Motion-activated lights make surprise visitors far less enthusiastic. Place them high enough that they can’t be tampered with.

Think before you post

• We know the beach is gorgeous and the road trip snacks are on point - but consider saving the holiday highlights for when you’re home. No need to announce an empty house to the world.

Neighbourhood support

• Good neighbours make great security. Join or start a neighbourhood support group - phone 0800 4NEIGHBOURS or info@neighbourhoodsupport.co.nz

See something? Say something.

• Report suspicious activity anonymously via Crime Stoppers - phone 0800 555 111

Wishing you and your loved ones a merry, bright, and above all safe Christmas and holiday season - may your days be cheerful, your travels smooth, and your insurance claims blissfully non-existent!

The JenBro team, December 2025