Police are reminding people in Invercargill to lock their cars even when parked in driveways after a number of vehicle break-ins.

"Police have been surprised by the number of people who do not lock their vehicles at night, leaving handbags, wallets and other valuable items in vehicles," Detective Sergeant Grant Johnstone says.

"We would all like to see the best in people and think we can trust those around us, however vehicle theft is an opportunistic crime," he says.  

Some suburbs are being targeted by thieves more than others, and in some cases there has been criminal damage.

"A number of tyres have been slashed and in one case a vehicle set alight outside a Fulton Street home. At least four vehicles have been stolen where the keys have been left inside unlocked vehicles," Johnstone says.

Police believe the same thieves are targeting unlocked vehicles in residential driveways and parked on streets.  

Police ask people to be extra vigilant around their vehicles ensuring vehicles are locked and secure with keys not left in vehicles along with valuable personal items in plain view.

Officers want people to report any suspicious activity during the small hours of the morning 'at the time', or, if you know who is responsible for this spate of offending, phone the Invercargill Police, 105 or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 08 105 55111.

•  Always lock your car, motorbike, bicycle or other vehicles even when parked in a driveway. A car alarm, steering lock, or good quality chains are extra deterrents too. Ideally keep all vehicles in a garage or out of sight.  
• Park in well-lit areas if you park your car on the street overnight.
• Put a prevention sticker on your windows or flashing LEDs on the dashboard.
• Keep valuables out of sight - keys, laptops, mobile phones, GPS devices and wallets and purses - if it can be seen, it can be a target. If you can’t take it with you, tuck it away out of sight.