Manawatū police have arrested five people in Feilding on charges of aggravated robbery, burglary and unlawful taking of motor vehicles.
Police said the offenders were aged 16 to 25.
In a statement on Thursday, Manawatū Area commander inspector Ross Grantham said police were made aware of increasing crime in the region and had upped the police presence in response.
He said the arrests reflected a successful result and hopes it sent a clear message to other offenders.
"Everyone has the right to feel safe in their community and we take a no-nonsense approach to offending that threatens that."
The police have also been conducting reassurance patrols in the area to ensure residents that the crime is being dealt with.
Inspector Grantham is encouraging neighbours to get to know each other, especially those that are vulnerable and to report suspicious behaviour.
He said neighbourhoods at risk should establish "capable guardians" - people who know the community well and can keep an eye out.
"A connected community is a safe community."
