A petty crime wave has hit Port Chalmers, where several vehicles have been broken into and a small arson is being investigated.

Police have received four reports of vehicles being burgled in the seaside town this week, and the latest incident was just last night.

Police say nothing of great value has been stolen from the vehicles, in which glove boxes have been rifled through and the contents dumped nearby.

Officers suspect those responsible are also behind a minor arson in Port Chalmers at the weekend.

In that case several youths were seen running away from a container depot where a small fire was lit.

Police enquiries into the offences are continuing.