Police are asking businesses to be on the lookout for counterfeit cash, following reports of fake bank notes being presented at Waikato businesses recently.

Police are making enquiries into at least six reports of counterfeit $50 notes being used in retail stores across Hamilton.

'It's important that businesses involved in handling money are aware of security features within New Zealand bank notes,” says a post on the Waikato Police Facebook page.

'The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has clear guides outlining security features of New Zealand bank notes and how to spot counterfeit notes, including a downloadable PDF quick guide, on their website.”

Security features are the same on all denominations.

'If you believe someone is trying to pass you a counterfeit note, do not accept it and notify Police.

'If you find you've already received a counterfeit note, put it in an envelope to avoid handling it further and get in touch with police.

'If you have any information about these counterfeit notes or anyone who might be involved in their manufacture or distribution, please contact police.”

You can phone police on 105, or you can also give information anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 using the reference 210326/1325.