Where Did We Get the Data?
The 2025 figures come from New Zealand Police vehicle theft data published by Scoop. They show which vehicle models were stolen most often across the country during the year.
New Zealand’s Most Stolen Vehicles
The Toyota Hilux topped the list, with 184 stolen in 2025. The Ford Courier followed with 111, while the Toyota Hiace and Toyota Wish were tied on 97 thefts each.
Utes feature heavily in the ranking, but several older passenger cars and family models also appear. That suggests thieves were not simply chasing expensive or luxury vehicles. Familiar models that are widely used across New Zealand were often the ones being taken.
1. Toyota Hilux: 184 stolen
The Toyota Hilux was New Zealand’s most stolen vehicle in 2025.
It is a common sight on farms, building sites and suburban roads, where it is used for everything from heavy work to family travel. Its popularity means there are plenty of Hilux utes on the road, but it also makes the model easy for thieves to spot.
2. Ford Courier: 111 stolen
Although newer Ford utes have largely replaced it, the Courier remains widely used throughout New Zealand.
Many are still working vehicles, particularly in rural areas and among tradespeople. With 111 stolen during the year, its age has clearly not made it any less attractive to thieves.
3. Toyota Hiace: 97 stolen
The Hiace is one of the country’s most recognisable commercial vans.
Tradespeople, couriers and small businesses rely on it to carry tools, equipment and deliveries. Many are parked outside homes or workplaces overnight, sometimes with valuable contents still inside.
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4. Toyota Wish: 97 stolen
The Toyota Wish matched the Hiace with 97 thefts.
Its roomy interior and practical layout have made it a popular family vehicle and everyday runabout. It may not stand out as an obvious target, but the number stolen shows that ordinary family cars can be just as vulnerable.
5. Toyota Land Cruiser: 86 stolen
The Land Cruiser is built for demanding conditions and remains popular with farmers, four-wheel-drive owners and people living outside the main cities.
Its reputation for reliability also helps it hold its value, which may make stolen vehicles and parts more appealing.
6. Toyota Corolla: 83 stolen
Few cars are more familiar on New Zealand roads than the Toyota Corolla.
Generations of the model are still in daily use, from older hatchbacks to newer sedans. The sheer number available gives thieves more chances to find one parked and unattended.
7. Holden Commodore: 81 stolen
Holden stopped producing the Commodore years ago, but the model still has a strong following.
Many remain on the road as family cars, work vehicles and enthusiast-owned models. Their continued popularity helps explain why 81 were stolen in 2025.
8. Toyota Aqua: 77 stolen
The Aqua has become a popular choice for drivers looking for a compact and economical hybrid.
It is widely used for commuting, deliveries and everyday city driving, so it often appears in residential streets, shopping centre car parks and other busy public areas.
9. Ford Ranger: 75 stolen
The Ford Ranger is one of New Zealand’s best-known modern utes.
It is equally common on work sites, rural properties and suburban driveways. Its popularity, value and versatility make it useful to owners, but those same qualities can also attract thieves.
10. Nissan Navara: 71 stolen
The Nissan Navara rounds out the list with 71 thefts.
Like the Hilux and Ranger, it is used for work, recreation and family travel across both urban and rural areas. Its broad appeal keeps it in steady demand and puts plenty of examples within reach of thieves.
Conclusion
New Zealand’s most stolen vehicles were not necessarily the newest or most expensive. Many were familiar models used every day by families, workers and businesses.
Popular vehicles are easier to find, and thieves may already know how to target them. Locks, alarms and careful parking can make theft more difficult, but no measure can remove the risk completely.
A GPS tracker cannot stop someone from taking a vehicle, but it can show where it has gone. That location information can be shared with police and may help them recover it.
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