Avondale Community Watch

Report anything suspicious to the police.

“A police spokesperson said they responded to the suburb of Avondale about 2pm after a report of a man in possession of a firearm in the Great North Rd area.”

Man accused of carrying fake gun through Auckland street Police were called to Avondale about 2pm after reports of a firearm sighting.

An alleged burglar who got spooked by a security guard and thought he was in the clear has been sniffed out by our four-legged friends.

At about 2.10am, Police were notified of an unknown person inside a Blockhouse Bay Road property by an onsite security guard.

Auckland City West Area Commander, Inspector Jacqui Whittaker, says officers responded quickly and noted the alleged offender had gained entry through a window.

“The offender has clearly been inside the vacant property collecting copper, which we located hidden inside a bag in one of the rooms.

“Delta has then started tracking away from the property and found a man matching the description.

“He was taken into custody on Leinster Street without incident.”

Inspector Whittaker says a search of the alleged offender found tools and gloves.

“We hope this arrest provides reassurance to the community.”

Police continue to encourage anyone who witnesses suspicious behaviour, or who has information that may assist ongoing investigations, to contact Police on 105 or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

A 57-year-old man has been charged with burglary and possessing instruments for burglary and will appear in Auckland District Court on Thursday.

🔎 Top 10 Things to Remember When Identifying a Person:

Sometimes in the moment, it’s easy to miss important identifying details when trying to remember someone.

Here are a few simple tips to help you stay observant and take note of key features that matter:

✅ Age & general age range
✅ Gender & body build
✅ Height & overall stature
✅ Complexion & noticeable features
✅ Hair style, color & facial hair
✅ Clothing — colors, patterns, layers
✅ Distinguishing marks (tattoos, scars, piercings)
✅ Unique traits (walk, speech, physical characteristics)
✅ Behaviour & mannerisms (gestures, habits)
✅ Direction of travel (on foot, vehicle details, where they went)

The more details you remember, the more helpful your description can be. Make notes as soon as you can, even a voice note on your phone. Awareness can make all the difference.

Stay vigilant and help keep our community safe.