Italian Tourists’ Van Broken Into Days After Purchase in Auckland
Auckland, New Zealand – Italian tourists Elisa Raso and Andrea Pelizzaro experienced a distressing start to their New Zealand working holiday after their van was broken into in New Lynn just days after purchasing it. The incident has left the couple feeling unsafe and questioning the country’s reputation for safety.
Details of the Break-In
The break-in occurred last Sunday near a shop on Delta Avenue, approximately 10 meters from the North Western Toyota dealership. CCTV footage from the dealership captured the alleged thief breaking into the van and stealing the couple’s belongings within three minutes, according to Raso. The stolen items included laptops, money, and copies of important documents.
Raso suspects the thief may have followed them from the New Lynn library, where they were planning their trip. The couple had only purchased the van three days prior, having traveled to Auckland specifically for the purchase after working in the kiwifruit industry in Ōpōtiki for a month and a half. Fortunately, they had secured insurance for the vehicle the day before the incident.
Impact on Travel Plans
The incident has significantly disrupted the couple’s travel plans. They have been unable to leave the van unattended due to a broken lock, and have been forced to file a police report and submit insurance claims. They are likewise facing delays whereas waiting for repairs and addressing an existing engine issue with the van.
“We don’t feel that safe anymore,” Raso stated. She noted that other backpackers had described New Zealand as a incredibly safe country, but her experience has been different. “A lot of other backpackers told us they feel so secure, they used to leave their cars open.”
The couple initially intended to stay in New Zealand until December to complete their working holiday visas, but are now reconsidering their plans, stating they will “see how things develop.”
Police Investigation
The New Lynn police are investigating the incident. Station support officer Warren Strand confirmed that police have obtained CCTV footage from North Western Toyota and collected fingerprints from the van. Strand stated that the suspect in the footage was also seen breaking into a car at Lynn Mall a few days after the van incident.
Strand advised the public to monitor online marketplaces for any listings of the stolen items. He was able to assist in getting the van’s lock repaired and submitted the invoice to the insurance company for coverage. North Western Toyota – New Lynn is located at 5 Delta Avenue, New Lynn, Auckland, 1007. Their phone number is 09-827 2130.
About North Western Toyota
North Western Toyota has been serving the West Auckland and greater Auckland area since 1989. They offer both new and used vehicles, servicing, and Toyota parts at their locations in Henderson and New Lynn. North Western Toyota can be found at 5 Delta Ave, New Lynn, Auckland 0600.