The Bay of Islands - especially Opua Marina and surrounding streets - has been hit by a wave of car thefts in recent days.
Police hope the arrest of a 17-year-old from Moerewa will at least slow down the crime spree.
The teenager has so far been charged with eight counts of unlawfully taking a motor vehicle, one of attempted unlawful taking, and one of possession of an instrument for taking drugs. More charges are possible.
Senior Sergeant Peter Robinson, of Kerikeri police, said enquiries were ongoing.
The full extent of the 17-year-old's alleged offending was not yet clear, but police believe he had not acted alone and were looking for an accomplice.
He appeared in the Kaikohe District Court on Wednesday and is due back on January 13.
Meanwhile, the Far North's top cop is urging people to be vigilant and keep an eye out for suspicious activity, especially around marinas and beaches.
Area commander Inspector Wendy Robilliard said people also needed to lock their vehicles and take all valuables with them.