Cannabis grower information sought

A cannabis plot located near Dunedin recently by the Southern District Organised Crime Squad. Supplied photo

Police have located three "significant" cannabis plots in the Dunedin area in recent weeks, and are asking people to keep an eye out for signs of growing activity.

They found 36 plants at Otakou, 40 plants in North East Valley and 22 plants near Berwick.

Police say the outdoor cannabis growing season is nearing its end, and it's the time of year when plants are at their most mature before they are harvested.

This means it's easier to spot plants because they tend to be taller and more visible than they are earlier in the growing season. There is also increased activity by growers as the harvest, which usually gets under way in April, approaches.

Police are asking people to take note of any unusual comings and goings in their area, particularly if they live in semi-rural areas on the outskirts of the city.

Suspicious activity to be aware of can include unknown vehicles driving up and down the road or parked on the roadside; unusual lights in the bush at night; or items such as fencing equipment and possum traps going missing.

If people spot anything or anyone acting suspiciously, or have information about someone growing cannabis, they should contact the police.

Useful information includes a description of the location, the date and time when a grow is spotted or when suspicious activity was seen, and the registration numbers of any vehicles linked to the activity.

People with information can contact Detective Hamish Barrons on 471-5032. Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 1110800 555 111.