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A visitor to Warkworth is feeling shaken but grateful after her car, along with Christmas presents and her favourite denim jacket, was stolen from the New World carpark in Warkworth yesterday afternoon.
Janet, from Mount Maunganui, popped into the supermarket to pick up a few items before returning to a farm at Ahuroa where she was visiting family.
“I was probably in the store for 10 minutes and the car was locked. When I returned to the car park, my car was gone.”
Supermarket staff called the police immediately and they were on the scene within minutes.
The theft was broadcast over police radio and the vehicle was spotted leaving the Warkworth area.
Local police, with the assistance of the highway patrol, the Eagle helicopter, police dogs and camera operators apprehended two 16-year-old males from Dargaville. They have been charged with unlawfully taking a motor vehicle.
Sgt Mark Stallworthy, of Warkworth Police, says the males had no links to Warkworth and were just passing through. The vehicle and all items were recovered.
Janet was this morning talking to her insurance company because her treasured 1996 Subaru sedan has sustained damage to its ignition, bumper and possibly suspension.
“I love that car. It’s like my baby,” she says. “It was in immaculate condition.
“I don’t know yet whether it can be repaired or whether it will be written off, but either way, my plan to do a holiday road trip to visit family and friends is over.”
But in spite of the ordeal, Janet says she can’t say enough about the help and support from supermarket staff and police.
“They were absolutely amazing and I really want to thank them all. I’m sure if I had been doing a full grocery shop, then I would never have seen the car again.”
Sgt Stallworthy says this is a timely reminder that not everyone is in the Christmas spirit.
“Please don’t hesitate to call 111 if you see anything suspicious or out of character. We are here 24/7 patrolling and ready to respond.”
