A counterfeit banknote. Businesses in South Taranaki are being asked to keep an eye out for counterfeit notes after police were alerted to their use in the area. (File photo).
NZ POLICE/THE-DOMINION-POST
A counterfeit banknote. Businesses in South Taranaki are being asked to keep an eye out for counterfeit notes after police were alerted to their use in the area. (File photo).

 

Counterfeit banknotes have been presented at South Taranaki businesses, prompting a warning from police.

Businesses should be on the lookout for the fake notes, police said, as they continue to try and establish their source.

It is a crime to make, use or be in possession of counterfeit banknotes.

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has clear guides outlining the security features of New Zealand banknotes and how to spot counterfeit notes.

Security features are the same on all denominations and businesses involved in handling money should be aware of security features within New Zealand banknotes, police said.

If presented with a counterfeit banknote, businesses should accept it and notify police.

If you find you’ve already received a counterfeit note, put it in an envelope to avoid handling it further, police said.

Anyone with information about the manufacture or distribution of counterfeit banknotes is asked to contact Police on 105. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.