Boat owners should be wary after several recent thefts of recreational boats in the Western Bay of Plenty.

There have been a number of boat thefts over the last month in the area, which police are investigating.

The offenders have targeted residential properties with boats parked outside with easy access.

"With the arrival of spring and summer fast approaching, this is a timely opportunity to check your security around your boats and home," says area response manager senior sergeant Mark Pakes.

"The majority of these offences are preventable if owners take the time to secure items such as life jackets, fishing, safety and electronic equipment.

These items are valuable and are left lying inside boats that are often insecure or have easy access."

"Please report any suspicious behaviour to us as soon as you can - we would much rather attend a false alarm than miss the opportunity to apprehend an offender.”

'People, if they can, should try and thwart thieves by protecting their belongings with anti-theft devices, and/or by parking boats in garages or carports."

"It's also wise to install alarms and good lighting to deter these offenders, and try to keep valuables out of boats if at all possible."

"If we work together, we can combat this issue."

Police ask that anybody with information regarding property stolen from boats contact us on 07 577 4300.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.