New Zealand: Safety Information for Auckland (April – June 2024)

Consulate-General in Auckland

1. Security Situation and General Crime Trends

   (1) General Security Issues

   In New Zealand, there are frequent occurrences of robberies (including “ram raids,” where vehicles are driven into stores for theft), burglary (such as break-ins), vehicle theft, and assaults in busy areas. It is essential to be vigilant about crime prevention. Gang conflicts are also common, so exercise particular caution in crowded places to avoid involvement. Additionally, there has been a rise in special frauds involving phone scams, so be cautious of suspicious calls. Drug-related organized crime, such as methamphetamine distribution, is also a significant issue in New Zealand.

   (2) Crime Trends in Auckland

   The New Zealand Police have reported the following crime trends in Auckland from April 2024 to June 2024.

   (3) Recent Crimes

   For details, please visit the New Zealand Police website:

   New Zealand Police News

   a. Online Scams

   The New Zealand Police have issued warnings about various types of fraud. If you fall victim to a scam, report it immediately to the police at 105.

   (Fraud Pretending to Be Police Officers)

   Many scam calls come from overseas or landlines, with numerous reports of such scams. Points to watch out for include:

   • The police will not ask for bank account or card information, or PIN numbers.
   • If you suspect a call is fraudulent, listen carefully to the details, hang up, and verify the information with the police at 105.
   • The police will not offer rewards.

   (Fraud Involving Fixed Deposit Accounts)

   First reported in 2023, this type of scam has been rapidly increasing. Some reports indicate losses of tens of thousands of dollars. Points to be cautious about include:

   • Do not enter personal information on websites offering fixed deposit interest rates.
   • If you accidentally provide information and receive follow-up calls, do not follow the caller’s instructions. Instead, verify details with the official bank contact number on the bank’s website.
   • If you fall victim to fraud, report it to the police first. For additional advice, refer to the following sites:
     • Financial Markets Authority (FMA) for suspicious company listings.
     • Consumer Protection NZ

   (Scams on Facebook Marketplace)

   A 26-year-old man involved in 27 scams in Auckland was arrested. Scams involved fake product images or fake bank account details after purchasing products. Points to consider:

   • Verify products before payment and do not pay before receiving the product.
   • If meeting in person, do so in a public place with a third party present.
   • Always check the seller’s profile before purchasing.
   • Advise friends or family on self-defense methods if they encounter similar issues.

   b. Crimes Related to Illegal Drugs

   In January of this year, 50 kilograms of cocaine hidden in a shipment from Brazil were discovered at the Tauranga Port, leading to the arrest of four men associated with a gang.

   c. Other Crimes

   The New Zealand Police arrested a 28-year-old man for stealing mail over several years. Hundreds of letters were found at his home, and he used stolen personal information to apply for loans and credit cards. Preventive measures include:

   • Check your mailbox regularly.
   • Arrange for mail to be held if you will be away for a while.
   • Provide accurate instructions to ensure mail is delivered where it cannot be seen from outside.
   • Install security cameras near your mailbox or entrance.
   • Pick up your mail yourself if possible.
   • Report suspicious individuals around your property or mailbox to the police immediately.
   • Report incidents to the police (105).

   On June 28, a 16-year-old Chinese student was severely injured by a metal rod on a bus in Auckland, resulting in the loss of three teeth. The 39-year-old female suspect was arrested on July 8.

   d. Incidents Involving Japanese Nationals

   • Reports received at the consulate in the past three months include at least eight cases of “money transfer scams” where individuals were deceived by impersonating Inland Revenue Department (IRD) officials and directing victims to send financial information through government services or other apps.
   • Scams involving payment of deposits for non-existent rental properties were reported through the Facebook group “Auckland Flatmates and Flats Wanted.”
   • Vehicle theft and subsequent theft of driver’s licenses and other items in Rotorua.
   • Theft of valuables including passports and wallets from a car while dining in a restaurant.
   • Online job scams where individuals were deceived into making large payments in cryptocurrency.
2. Terrorism and Bombing Incidents

   Currently, the terrorism threat level in New Zealand is assessed as Low.

   [Reference: Terrorism Threat Level Assessment]

3. Safety Issues Concerning Japanese Companies

   No particular issues have been recognized.