Burglars are targeting expensive items left in North Dunedin flats as most students leave the city for summer.
Break-ins at student flats was a year-round problem but the rate of burglaries was ''absolutely higher'' at this time of year, University of Otago campus cop Senior Constable John Woodhouse said.
''I think students are a little bit naive about the fact that they are targeted,'' he said.
''Most flats are quite communal, with friends coming and going, so they often don't lock up or take a key.
''There are serious, long-term professional burglars who target the students.
''It's especially bad at this time of year when they have just left and have all their expensive items in one room.
''There are less people around to notice burglary activities - during busier times, someone who is clearly not a student sticks out more.''
The increased activity as students moved in and out of flats at the end of the year meant burglars did not look as suspicious.
''[Students] often move their things into a new flat for the following year without much thought about security.''
Leaving items in an unoccupied house could also affect insurance, he said.
''Their insurance may become invalid if the house is unoccupied for a long period.
''They need to make sure they are clear about what their insurance covers.
''Students need to be more vigilant all year round - if you leave expensive items unattended, you are inviting trouble.''
- by David Beck
