The Best Home Security Tips for the 2025 Festive Season

As the festive season approaches, many Kiwis are looking forward to switching off from work, enjoying some downtime, and heading away on a well-deserved summer break.

To help with your home security while you are away – and to offer some general, helpful advice – here are our top tips for the upcoming festive season to help keep your property safe and secure.

1. Start With a Home Security Audit

In the lead up to your holiday, set aside time for a quick security check.

Check the basics:

• Ensure all window latches, locks, and deadbolts are functioning properly.
• Confirm outdoor sheds, garages, and storage spaces are securely locked.
• Avoid leaving spare keys outside — even “creative” hiding places have become predictable.
• Test your alarm system, sensors, and any smart-home security devices.
• Remove items that could make a burglar’s job easier, such as ladders, tools, or loose bricks.
• Review your exterior lighting and ensure sensor lights are working as intended.
• Secure outdoor items such as furniture, umbrellas, trampolines, and garden ornaments — strong summer winds can move or damage loose items, creating unnecessary risks while you’re away.

Secure valuables:
High-value items like jewellery, gaming consoles, electronics, and tools are still top targets. Keep these out of sight, stored securely, or placed in a locked safe. If you’re away for an extended period, consider giving your most valuable items to a trusted friend or family member for safekeeping.

2. Create the Illusion of an Occupied Home

Burglars are far less likely to target a home that appears lived in. A few subtle touches can make all the difference:

• Leave curtains and blinds in their usual positions.
• Arrange for someone to clear your mailbox or redirect your mail.
• Pause newspaper or subscription deliveries.
• If you’re away for more than a week, get someone to mow your lawns or tidy your garden and take out/bring in your rubbish bins.
• Use smart plugs or timers to switch lights and radios on and off at predictable intervals.
• Leave shoes by the front door or a few items of washing on the line—small signals that someone is home.

3. Don’t Advertise Your Absence

Be mindful of what you share online and when you share it:

• Avoid posting your holiday plans publicly on social media.
• Save your holiday photos and videos to post when you return—this simple delay can significantly reduce risk.

4. Embrace Smart Security Options

Technology can offer added peace of mind while you’re away:

• Smart doorbells and video cameras that send real-time alerts.
• App-controlled lighting and appliances to mimic daily routines.
• Remote alarm monitoring so you can check system status from anywhere.

A Safe and Relaxing Holiday Starts at Home

Putting these steps into practice can help ensure your holiday is spent relaxing—not worrying. A little preparation now means you can head away confident that you’ve done everything you can to keep your home secure.

From all of us at Iron Bridge Property Group, we wish you and your family a safe, happy, and restful holiday season.

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