Waikato Police have made eight arrests, during an operation to catch a group of prolific offenders

Operation Smelter targeted a string of aggravated robberies and commercial and retail burglaries in the district.

Officers used multiple search warrants in Hamilton and Thames yesterday, arresting eight people aged 14 -to-18.

Two others believed to be involved in recent offending were arrested in Whanganui overnight.

Police hope the arrests send a clear message that repeat offenders will be held to account.