Hawkes Bay Police are urging the public to keep their homes and vehicles secure - with a spike in the number of diesel thefts in rural Hastings

Detective Gabrielle Parsons says opportunistic thieves have been taking advantage of unlocked doors and windows - even when people are at home.

She says simple steps like locking a gate or not leaving keys in your vehicle can make all the difference.

Parsons says alarms, sensor lighting, and quality locks are all good investments to make your home less of a target.