Warnings are being issued about black magic practicing witch doctors said to be swarming into South Auckland and exploiting vulnerable people.

Here on tourist or temporary work visas, they are using local media to advertise lifelong protection from the likes of black magic, money problems and marriage problems.

They are said to be ripping New Zealanders off to the tune of thousands of dollars, and have raised the ire of Auckland community leader Pratima Nand.

Nand believes the witch doctors should not be operating in the community.

"They are here to suck money out of people. They are leaving people in a very devastated state - suffering mentally, psychologically...after losing large sums of money," she aid.

"It has got to a stage where South Auckland is swarming with these witchcraft and black magic so-called priests."

According to Nand, the witch doctors are moving from country to country.

Immigration New Zealand is reported to be investigating.