Hawke's Bay Police impounded 42 cars in the week to February 23.

18 were for street racing and 23 for alcohol or drivers licensing offences.

Road Policing Manager Inspector Matt Broderick says in a normal week, around 25 cars would be impounded.

He says the increase can be put down to the increased police presence in the area, which will continue as the region recovers from Cyclone Gabrielle.