Thieves have looted homes in flood-ravaged areas of Mataura and Brydone in Southland

Two unattended homes have been burgled and "unknown people" have been spotted on and around rural properties in Mataura and Lumsden.

Gore Senior Sergeant Cynthia Fairley says the strangers fled when confronted.

She says while there's been an amazing response from people who've been helping neighbours and fellow residents after the floods, some properties have been targeted by thieves while they've been left unattended.

Police have stepped up patrols in Mataura, Gore and Wyndham, and investigations into the burglaries were ongoing.