Canterbury Police say a spike in the seriousness of youth crime in Christchurch has prompted a new crackdown

An Eagle helicopter has been deployed in Christchurch as part of a two-month operation targeting youth offending.

District Commander Tony Hill says they'll be using the helicopter in areas and time periods they know are at higher risk.

He says the seriousness of the offending has increased in the last few weeks which is what's most concerning.