A group of teenagers has stolen dozens of cars for joy rides in the Wellington suburb of Miramar

Police have reported a recent spike in car thefts in the area and have deployed extra patrols during high-risk times, like at night and the early hours of the morning.

Wellington area prevention manager Inspector Warwick McKee told the Herald about six to eight youths were responsible for the offending.

He says they don't understand the power or the damage that can be caused if they hit or collide with another car