Reports of counterfeit cash circling prompts warning from police

There have been reports of counterfeit cash presented in Manawatū.
There have been reports of counterfeit cash presented in Manawatū. Photo credit: Getty Images

Counterfeit cash is cropping up at stores in the Manawatū area, prompting police to warn businesses to look out for the fake notes.

Police say they're currently investigating the reports of counterfeit cash and want to remind businesses involved in the handling of money to get familiar with the security features on New Zealand banknotes. 

These features include the serial number, metallic images, raised ink, a colour changing bird, a large transparent window, and a puzzle number.

A full list of features and how to identify them can be found here at the Reserve Bank of New Zealand website. 

Features are the same on all notes, the Reserve Bank says the best way to quickly identify them is to "look, feel and tilt."

Police advise anyone who believes they are being presented with a counterfeit note to not accept it and notify police. 

If someone finds they have already received a counterfeit note they're advised to put it in an envelope to avoid handling it earlier and contact police. 

Police ask anyone who may have any information on these counterfeit notes or anyone who may be involved in their manufacturing or distribution to contact police.