Hāwera Smash-and-Grab: Noel Leeming Left Reeling After Overnight Ram-Raid
By Lions Roar Aotearoa News Crime Desk
HĀWERA, TARANAKI — Sunday, February 8, 2026 — Police have launched an investigation after a high-profile “smash-and-grab” style burglary targeted two commercial premises in Hāwera in the early hours of this morning.
A Noel Leeming store on Nelson Street bore the brunt of the attack, which saw a vehicle driven directly into the building to gain entry. The store remains cordoned off today as staff and investigators assess the damage.
1. 3:50 AM Wake-Up Call
The incident triggered multiple alarms across the quiet Taranaki town:
- Two Targets: Police received reports at approximately 3:50 AM that two businesses on Nelson Street had been hit in quick succession.
- The Vehicle: Officers confirmed a car was used to breach the security of the buildings. A photo circulating on social media shows the vehicle sitting deep inside the Noel Leeming showroom floor, surrounded by shattered glass and mangled electronics.
- The Aftermath: By daybreak, police had secured the scene, but the offenders had already fled.
2. Store Remains Closed
Noel Leeming Hāwera has been unable to open for Sunday trade.
- Structural Damage: Beyond the stolen inventory, the impact has caused significant damage to the storefront and interior displays.
- Comment Pending: Stuff has reached out to Noel Leeming’s head office for a statement on the extent of the loss, but no official update has been released yet.
- Community Concern: Local residents expressed frustration on social media, with one Facebook user noting the “brazen nature” of using a vehicle on such a busy commercial street.
3. The Investigation Continues
Taranaki Police are currently reviewing CCTV footage from both the targeted premises and nearby street cameras.
- Forensic Sweep: A forensic team was expected on-site this morning to search for DNA or fingerprint evidence left at the scene or within the abandoned vehicle.
- Call for Witnesses: Anyone who may have seen a suspicious vehicle or group of people in the Nelson Street area between 3:00 AM and 4:30 AM is urged to contact police.
