Hibiscus Coast locals are reminded to stay vigilant following the arrest of a woman accused of targeting open homes across Auckland.

Police have charged a 29-year-old woman with multiple counts of burglary and credit card misuse after a series of thefts from properties on Auckland’s North Shore and in West Auckland.

Detective Senior Sergeant Megan Goldie of Waitematā CIB confirmed the charges, which follow an extensive investigation into 12 reported incidents since August.

According to police, the accused allegedly focused on personal belongings, particularly jewellery, during open home viewings.

“Yesterday morning, we arrested a woman at an address in Massey and located and recovered items of jewellery there that were reported as stolen,” Detective Senior Sergeant Goldie stated.

The woman faces 12 counts of burglary and two charges of taking and using a credit card for pecuniary advantage.

She is scheduled to appear in the Waitākere District Court today.

Authorities have urged the community to exercise caution when hosting open home events.

“We ask that the community continues to remain vigilant when putting their homes up for open home viewings,” Detective Senior Sergeant Goldie added.

“Ensure high value items that can easily be stolen are removed from the property or secured into a safe.”

Police are continuing efforts to recover additional stolen jewellery and return it to its rightful owners.