The Counties Manukau Road Crime Unit have arrested a number of people after carrying out two warrants on a local mechanics premises.
Police say that intelligence had been gathered relating to the business in question and it has recently become clear that it was an illegal car ringing operating.
As a result 12 stolen cars have been recovered and a number of people arrested and charged with receiving and theft offences.
"We would like to take this opportunity to remind people to make sure you're taking your car to legitimate places of business" says Inspector Neil Fisher.
"These illegal operators have been replacing the engines of legitimate customers with stolen ones as well as changing number plates and VIN numbers".