Bay of Plenty forestry workers are considering arming themselves after a spate of diesel thefts.
The siphoning of diesel from forestry machinery has become increasingly common, with 10 reported cases in the last month.
In one instance, at least 800 litres was taken from a tanker, Kawerau Senior Sergeant Warwick Morehu said.Tarawera, Matahina and Kawerau forestry blocks in the Eastern Bay of Plenty have all been targeted.
One contractor, who wanted to remain anonymous, said some workers were considering staying in the forest overnight and taking weapons to protect their machinery and livelihoods.Machines left idle without fuel cost up to $500 an hour in lost profits, he said.
"We've got to leave them out there because it costs $1000 every time we have to move them out of the forest."
