Police are warning the public about a rise in counterfeit $50 and $100 banknotes being circulated across New Zealand, urging people to remain alert when handling cash.
According to a report by Stuff, authorities say the increase in reports is of particular concern for those working in the retail and hospitality sectors, where staff may unknowingly accept fake notes during transactions.
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has advised the public to use the “look-feel-tilt” test to identify genuine banknotes. Key security features include a holographic window showing a bird silhouette, a map of New Zealand and a three-dimensional denomination figure. Genuine notes also have raised ink on the “Reserve Bank of New Zealand Te Pūtea Matua” lettering, as well as a rolling bar of light and colour-shifting effects visible when the note is tilted, Stuff has reported.
Police are urging anyone who believes they may have received a counterfeit banknote to report it immediately.
Producing or knowingly using counterfeit currency is a serious criminal offence. Under the law, possession of forged banknotes can carry a penalty of up to seven years’ imprisonment, while using counterfeit money may result in a sentence of up to 10 years, as reported by Stuff.