Thousands of dollars of jewellery stolen from a guest safe at Horizons Cottages has been returned.

The victims - a German couple - said it went went missing between 8.30 a.m. and 1.45 p.m. on Thursday from the Paget property.

Police announced the theft on Tuesday - and hours later it was returned.

However cash, including 2,570, ?200 sterling, and US$5,000 , is still missing, along with the couples' passports.

Horizons Ltd president George Wardman said a manager was manning the switchboard at 8.15 p.m. Tuesday night and someone said: "You have got your f***ing jewellery, don't bother me again."

Mr. Wardman said the manager went out and looked around and then called the Police.

The haul, including things that weren't even reported missing, was found in the driveway.

Mr. Wardman said: "In my experience people don't always remember what they bring."

He said the German couple, who have been coming to Horizons for the last seven years, were happy to get the jewellery back and became instant celebrities at dinner.

"It gave everybody something to talk about."

Earlier he said the safe had not been forced and there was only one key for that safe which was registered with the manufacturer.

Police are continuing inquiries into the incident. Anyone with any information is asked to call Det. Con. Jason Ming on 299-4556.