Three people have been charged after allegedly stealing a large amount of meat from supermarkets in Wellington's Island Bay and Crofton Downs

Police found around a thousand dollars worth of meat after stopping a car travelling north from the city.

Inspector Jason McCarthy says it was targeted thefts of high-value items, destined to be on-sold.

Two young people and an 18-year-old man have been charged with shoplifting offences, and all three appeared in the Wellington Youth Court.