Neighbours snap burglars | Hawkes Bay News | Local News in Hawkes Bay

Napier's Art Deco celebrations turned to misery for an elderly Havelock North couple on Sunday.

While the pair were enjoying the 1930s frivolity on Marine Parade, thieves made the most of their unoccupied home on Lucknow Rd and stole a number of goods including a coin collection, family photos, TV and computer.

The brazen crooks would have got away unsighted, had it not been for the quick thinking of a local resident who photographed the two loading items on to a sack barrow (pictured right).

The retired couple, who did not wish to be identified, were described as "heartbroken" by their son.

Of the goods stolen, the laptop theft hurt the most as it contained pictures of their grandchildren, whom they saw only "every few years", he said.

Police were investigating the burglary, which was believed to have occurred between 1pm and 1.15pm.

If anyone recognises the males, or this bike, please contact Hastings Police on (06) 873 0500.