Don't let strangers in, warn police

Police are warning people in Christchurch to not open their doors to strangers who ask to use the telephone.

The warning comes after an elderly lady in Woolston let in a young lady who knocked at her door asking to use the phone.

The young lady asked for a glass of water and while the elderly lady was getting it, she stole money from her purse.

Constable Shane Cowles said residents should be "very careful'' leaving windows and doors open even when you are home. 

"Secure your house when you are working at the other end or out in the garden and please do not let anyone you don't know into your home," he said.

"Please put your purse and car keys out of sight and not at the front door or anywhere obvious."

- © Fairfax NZ News