Central District Police are asking people to keep an eye out for suspicious activity in their communities especially for gardening of an illicit variety.

Senior Constable Dave Kirk, Central District's spokesperson for the annual operation against the illegal cultivation of cannabis, says spring is in the air and this time of year is usually when cannabis growing is well underway.

"Plants being grown outdoors will generally be in the region of waist height by now and noticeable. We strongly encourage residents and visitors to rural areas of the District to be extra vigilant and contact Police immediately if they see any suspicious activity."

Trampers, hunters, and those who work in rural areas and in aviation can be of great help at this time of year by keeping an eye out in their surroundings.

"Cannabis not only causes millions of dollars of social harm each year but it destroys lives and relationships. Other crimes such as theft and burglary are often committed to fund cannabis habits.

"Police are dedicated to reducing the demand for cannabis and disrupting the supply chain. It just takes one call to Police or Crimestoppers to prevent criminals peddling drugs in your community," says Senior Constable Kirk.

Police ask the public to report any suspicious activity including:

People seen repeatedly going to certain locations at odd times of the day and night

Shovels, spades and other such equipment being carried into the bush

Vehicles in rural areas closed to the public or with difficult access

Unusual lights in rural areas at night

Distinctive smell coming from rural areas or properties

Items going missing from rural properties that might be used in accessing plots and cultivation such as farm bikes and fencing equipment

Even when cannabis is being grown inside buildings there are tell-tale signs for the public and landlords to look out for:

Residents increasing fence heights

Curtains closed day and night

Shed and garage windows being blocked out

Bright lights on constantly or at strange times

Sounds of fans continually running or a constant hum

Vehicles and people visiting at all hours of the day and night

If you have information about drug cultivation, manufacture or supply rings please contact your local Police Station. Information can also be emailed to Central District Police at DCC.Central@police.govt.nz

Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Sara Stavropoulos on 027 702 0850.