Pony tailed thief

Police say a confident pony-tailed burglar may be responsible for 14 burglaries in the Riccarton area.

He has been breaking into student flats and family homes, sometimes at night while the occupants are asleep.

Police believe this man could be linked to a string of 14 burglaries, over the last two months in the Riccarton West area, which includes streets running off Riccarton Rd, Matipo St, Wharenui Rd and Blenheim Rd.

Riccarton West Neighbourhood Policing team leader Sergeant Steve Jones said police are concerned about this man who is unlawfully entering houses and stealing items, which is why they are urging the community to report any suspicious activity they see in the area to police.

"This person appears to be a confident burglar who is targeting houses in the area that are vulnerable such as student flats and houses where windows are left wide open and doors left either open or unlocked. Burglars will steal everything and anything they can get their hands on.

"While this person hasn't been violent toward anyone, it appears he knows what he is doing," he said.

Small, portable electronic items including, cell phones, wallets, gaming consoles, laptops, iPods and iPads have been stolen.

Sergeant Jones also said student flats are predominantly being targeted because of the electronic items that students have and lack of security, which is a big drawcard for burglars.

"People need to be on the lookout and make sure their homes are secure, even if they are inside or working in the garden, especially in the weeks coming up to Christmas.

"Try and keep valuables out of sight and keep your windows and doors locked if you aren't home.

"I would also encourage people to record their item's serial numbers on the SNAP website," he said.

If anyone has any information contact police on 363 7400 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.