The Titirangi Lotto and Post Shop says it will close because it feels unsafe to operate after several thefts targeting the store. Photo: Google Maps
A West Auckland post shop will close its doors for good after several robberies and ram raids.
Titirangi Lotto and Post Shop owner Aboli said she made the difficult decision to quit after the store was targeted by thieves for a seventh time.
"We just feel unsafe," she said. "Before there were some break-ins, but this ram raid was the final straw."
The store was ram-raided in April, which Aboli said was devastating.
"It was a very hard decision to make," she said.
"The other two ladies with whom I work, they were also feeling very unsafe."
Aboli was relieved to be putting the saga behind her, but said it was bittersweet.
"Everyone's feeling a bit relieved that we can look for something else now."
She was touched by the kind words from Titirangi residents on Facebook and those visiting the store on Monday.
"[There's an] excellent community here, very supportive," she said.
Her customers understood how difficult the past few months had been, Aboli said.
"They're also feeling sorry that we are leaving, but what to do?"