A Marlborough paintball complex was burgled for the sixth time in two years on Friday night.

It was one of four burglaries reported in rural Marlborough during the weekend, and police are urging property owners to make sure their vehicles, garages and storage sheds are secure and to report anything suspicious to police immediately.

Against All Odds Paintball head referee Jim Van Hoos said several items, including about 20 pairs of children's overalls, had been stolen from the paintball complex at Omaka, on the outskirts of Blenheim, on Friday night.

On Saturday morning he had found the lock into the building had been broken and pod belts, safety harnesses, chest vests, a dog chain, batteries and other items missing.

The more expensive gear, such as guns and masks, were not left in the building at night, Mr Van Hoos said. He did not understand the motive for the theft.

"The overalls weren't new - they were very worn, all kids sizes," he said.

"It's strange they didn't take the adult sizes."

He believes young people may have been responsible for the theft as a promotional PlayStation poster had also been stolen.

The items taken were not worth much, but kids who wanted to play paintball would have to wear long-sleeve T-shirts until the overalls were replaced, he said.

"It's sad to see there are people who are out to ruin young people's games; to ruin sport," he said.

Constable Andrew Holdaway, of Blenheim, said the three other burglaries were in the Renwick area on Saturday and Sunday nights.

Two chainsaws and fuel containers were taken from a locked shed in a vineyard.

Food items and a container were taken during the other burglaries, although a full list of what was missing was not yet complete, Mr Holdaway said yesterday.

Police were following a strong lead on one of the burglaries and were continuing to investigate the other three.

- The Marlborough Express

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