Pensioner’s car stolen, set on fire

Oamaru pensioner John Verkerk says he could barely recognise his light green 1995 Nissan Presea when he saw it yesterday.

Until Saturday morning it had been one of about 15 cars for sale at Oamaru’s unofficial car sales yard at Awamoa Park, in Wansbeck St.

It was stolen by ‘‘some crook, or a few crooks’’ and driven to Robbs Crossing Rd near Kia Ora.

Mr Verkerk said the vehicle had ‘‘hardly any’’ petrol when he left it. It was abandoned and set alight.

A neighbour called 111 and about 3.45am the Weston Volunteer Fire Brigade responded to a well-involved car fire.

Last month, Sergeant Blair Wilkinson, of Oamaru, urged people to move their cars from the lot overnight.

Police inquiries are ongoing.

Mr Verkerk said his car was insured.