Boat owners are becoming the latest target for thieves in Hawke's Bay.

Police have been inundated with reports of items being taken from boats that are parked at the sailing club on West Quay and on properties in Onekawa, Ahuriri and Greenmeadows.

The thieves are taking motors, fuel tanks, batteries and fishing gear.

Inspector Andy Sloan says these people will not hesitate to take anything that literally isn't tied down.