A rise in neighbourhood crime has prompted Invercargill police and the Invercargill City Council to go on the offensive.

Police and the council are meeting with neighbourhood support groups to help combat the increase in opportunistic crime.

Area tactical response manager Inspector Olaf Jensen said some of the city's neighbourhoods had been targeted by thieves breaking into cars.

The crimes being committed are often a result of owners leaving their cars unlocked with valuables inside, he said.

Securing vehicles and removing valuables from sight would help reduce car thefts. But having a neighbour who could report any suspicious behaviour would also help, Mr Jensen said.

''Those people involved in the neighbourhood support groups are the extra eyes and the ears the police need to deter criminals,'' he said.

South Invercargill Neighbourhood Police Team member Senior Constable Michael Hore said the residents in the neighbourhood were the best people to know who should be around.

''It's those who live in the street that will recognise a stranger.''

Neighbourhood support group member Adrian Harris said being part of the group had several advantages.

It was a good way to get to know the neighbours and also gave him and his wife peace of mind when they went away.

''Unfortunately there are people out there who take advantage of situations where property owners are away and it is good to know someone in your street is keeping an eye on things,'' he said.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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