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News · Waikato · Hamilton · Crime
Woman arrested after Hamilton burglaries targeted residents working outside
Bank cards were allegedly stolen from Hamilton homes while the occupants were gardening or working outside, before victims received calls from a scammer claiming to be from their bank. Police say the cards were then used to withdraw cash from ATMs.
By The Waikato Advocate · 28 October 2026 · 2 min read
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A 50-year-old woman has been arrested in Hamilton after an investigation into three separate reports of burglary and fraud.
Police allege the woman entered residential properties while the occupants were outside gardening or working around their homes.
In each instance, bank cards were taken before the victims received a phone call from a person claiming to be from their bank. The caller said suspicious transactions were occurring on the account and offered to stop the card — but claimed they needed the victim’s PIN to do so.
After obtaining the PIN, the stolen bank cards were used to withdraw cash from ATMs.
Following an investigation by the Waikato Tactical Crime Unit, police executed a search warrant at a Hamilton address on Wednesday morning and arrested the woman.
Waikato Tactical Crime Unit Detective Senior Sergeant Scott McKenzie said the case was a timely reminder to secure your property, even when you’re only a short distance away working outside.
“Offenders often look for easy opportunities, and an unlocked home, garage, or vehicle can provide just that. Taking a moment to lock up can help prevent becoming a victim of crime,” McKenzie said.
“Never share your bank card PIN, online banking password, or security codes with anyone. Legitimate banks will never contact you asking for your PIN, full password, or security codes.
“If in doubt, end the conversation and contact your bank directly using a trusted phone number.”
The woman has been charged with burglary and is due to appear in the Hamilton District Court on 29 October.
Source: New Zealand Police statement, issued 28 October 2026.
