Stolen Equipment Warning from Gore Family Business

A freight company owned by the Gore family has reported equipment theft from one of its trucks, prompting a warning from its operator to fellow transporters and the public about vigilant monitoring for opportunistic thieves.

Transporter Raises Awareness

Scot MacKay, co-owner of Hokonui Haulage, expressed a desire to recover the stolen items but emphasized the importance of making other truck drivers and nearby pedestrians aware of the theft issue. “If you see someone acting suspicious around a trailer, don’t hesitate to question it,” he advised.

Details of the Theft

The theft occurred last week after 4 PM from the “dog boxes” on the back of a trailer parked on Jollies Hill (SH6), while staff were just 100 meters away at work. The stolen items included straps and ratchets for securing loads, as well as twist locks for shipping containers, each valued at approximately $200.

Impact on Small Business

While the total value may not be high, MacKay stressed the impact on their small, family-run operation. “Any loss hits us hard,” he explained, noting that the stolen items are industry-specific and unlikely to hold significant resale value, which suggests the thief acted opportunistically.

Suspicious Activity Reported

A local farmer reported seeing a suspicious vehicle in the area that day. The farmer shared a photo of the vehicle and mentioned seeing it later with bright red straps attached, resembling those that were stolen.

Vigilance Across the Industry

MacKay has communicated with other transporters nationwide about similar thefts, underscoring the need for vigilance among those who park trailers unattended. “Transporters frequently leave their trailers on roadsides or driveways while completing jobs,” he noted, adding that many have never recovered their stolen items.

Business Background and Personal Frustration

Founded by his father in the ’70s under a different name, the family business has been fortunate until now, having faced little theft. MacKay expressed his frustration, saying he felt “pretty p … .. off” about the incident occurring in broad daylight and in a public area.

For further information, contact ella.scott-fleming@alliedpress.co.nz.