Police are not ruling out an organised crime link, following a spate of firearms thefts from rural properties in Otago and Southland.
During the past three months, nine rural properties have been burgled, resulting in 33 firearms - mainly shotguns and high-powered rifles - reported stolen.
District operations manager Inspector Lane Todd said nine rifles had been recovered in recent weeks after police executed a search warrant in Southland.
Three people were facing charges, but he declined to release more details as the matter was before the courts.
"The investigation is continuing," he said.
He declined to say whether there was an organised crime link to the burglaries, but said the alleged offenders were specifically targeting firearms, from properties in the Central Otago, Western Southland and Gore areas.
Insp Todd said it was fairly common knowledge most rural property owners had firearms, and the burglaries had occurred when no-one was at the property.
The theft of firearms had the "potential to be serious", and police were appealing for rural residents to check their security, particularly firearms security and record serial numbers.
Residents who notice any suspicious vehicles or people, were urged to contact their local police station.
People with information concerning the burglaries could contact police, or use the anonymous crimeline, Crimestoppers on 0800 555-111.
