The Toyota Hilux has been identified as New Zealand’s most stolen vehicle over a six-month period from May to October 2024.
Analysis of police data by MoneyHub revealed 171 thefts during this time, with Canterbury being a hotspot for Hilux thefts.
Known for its popularity and high resale value, Toyota's Hilux ute continues to be a frequent target for thieves seeking robust vehicles with strong demand for parts.
Second on the list is the Toyota Hiace, with 113 reported thefts concentrated in Auckland City. Commercial vans like the Hiace are often targeted for their versatility and the high demand for parts.
The Ford Courier, another utility vehicle, recorded 102 thefts, primarily in Canterbury. These figures highlight a consistent trend of thieves favouring practical vehicles with broad market appeal.
Other models on the list include the Nissan Navara, with 80 thefts reported, primarily in the Bay of Plenty, and the Toyota Aqua, which had 77 thefts centred in Counties Manukau.
The Holden Commodore, Subaru Legacy and Toyota Corolla also feature prominently, with 75 thefts each. These vehicles, known for their popularity and availability, are frequently stripped for high-demand parts.
Silver, white and black vehicles were the most stolen, reflecting their prevalence on New Zealand roads. Station wagons, sedans and hatchbacks are top targets, alongside utility vehicles. The preference for these vehicle types points to their availability and ease of resale.
The analysis also pinpoints high-theft regions, including Counties Manukau (687 incidents), Canterbury (564) and Auckland City (468), which experience higher theft rates due to their dense populations and greater vehicle numbers.
“Car theft remains a pervasive issue across New Zealand,” said MoneyHub founder Christopher Walsh.
He emphasised the importance of deterrents like immobilisers, steering locks and comprehensive insurance.
For prospective buyers, understanding theft trends is critical. Choosing vehicles with modern anti-theft features, conducting history checks, and implementing visible deterrents are effective ways to mitigate risk.
With an estimated 8000 to 10,000 vehicles stolen annually, staying informed and vigilant remains vital for vehicle owners nationwide.