Vehicle thefts continue to be an issue in the Whakatāne area, but police say steering wheel locks are an inexpensive way to prevent them.

Whakatāne Community Constable Rob Jones said ignition barrels were being ripped out of vehicles and people with car alarms were reporting their vehicles were still being stolen.

“What we’re noticing is that vehicles that have steering locks are not getting taken because they can’t rip them off.

“And they’re cheap. I had a look, and the basic ones are $30-$40.

“Steering locks are a good, cheap, preventable way to keep your car safe.”