Residents in Auckland are being warned to check identification for any official workers who come onto their properties after reports of people impersonating officials.
Police in East Manukau have received several reports of burglaries in the Howick area where the suspects pretended to be official workers such as power and water workers.
Counties Manukau East area community service manager Senior Sergeant Anson Lin said high-vis jackets aren't a guarantee of authority.
"Police are aware that there have been persons identifying themselves as official workers and visiting houses, advising residents they are there to check the water or power meters," said Sergeant Lin.
"A high-vis jacket is no guarantee of authority - and sadly there are offenders out there who are trying to take advantage of people."
Lin said all official workers, regardless of which organisation they work for, will be clearly identifiable with photo ID, uniforms and fluro gear.
"We encourage anyone who sees something that doesn't appear right to contact police.
"Don't be afraid to challenge something or someone to ask for identification - official workers will be clearly identifiable."
Senior Sergeant Lin said residents who notice any suspicious behaviour in their neighbourhood should contact police.
"If you see something, say something.
"We need the public to report any suspicious activity so we can conduct enquiries and hold offenders to account.
"If you see suspicious behaviour and it is happening now please contact Police on 111 or if it is after the fact, contact Police on 105 or online at https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105."
