As inquiries continue into the slaughter of more than 215 sheep on two properties in the Ngapara area, a fund for one of the families is growing.
More than $6800 has been deposited into the Westpac bank account, set up by Rural Women NZ North Otago and Federated Farmers, in support of Peter and Janine Stackhouse, following the recent slaughter of about 195 sheep on their Ngapara farm.
Detective Warren Duncan, of Oamaru, said police had finished their scene examination at the Dodds' farm, where at least 20 sheep were slaughtered over the weekend.
Police believe a firearm was used to kill the sheep in both incidents.
Their focus now is following up on information supplied by the public, he said.
''We believe that someone out there must know who has done this or have an idea who is involved,'' he said.
''It's important for the safety of the community that we get to the bottom of these incidents.''
Det Duncan said farmers should take a ''common-sense approach'' to securing their property and if they had any concerns, they should contact police for advice and support.
''There's concern throughout the community and it's scared people, including kids, which is quite a concern,'' he said.
''Our general advice is, as much as possible, to be vigilant about securing your property and stock and to keep an eye out for any suspicious vehicles or people in your area. Talk to your neighbours and look out for each other.''
Det Duncan said he had received some useful information from members of the public that police were examining further, but anyone with information that could assist further could contact him confidentially on 03 433-1416.
The Westpac bank account for donations to the Stackhouse family (03-0937-0071238-00) is under the name Rural Women NZ North Otago and people are asked to note ''farm stock'' in the reference window.
No decision has been made yet to include the Dodds family, but that will be discussed with Federated Farmers.
