Police were called by security guards at Dinsdale shops shortly after 2am.
"Four businesses had been broken into which included a hair salon, costume hire shop and two takeaway stores," Senior Sergeant Freda Grace said.
"In addition to items taken, extensive damage was caused to the buildings, which it is estimated will cost several thousand dollars to repair," she said.
Police dogs tracked a group back to a nearby property where a number of items were recovered.
An 18-year-old man and two females aged 18 and 16 were arrested.
A 24-year-old man was arrested on outstanding warrants and two other people were arrested for obstruction.
Ms Grace said police had been unable to interview all those involved due to their intoxication levels.
"Heaven knows what the offenders were planning to do with their loot when you consider the items recovered included a large amount of hair products, a till, soft drinks and a large Winnie the Pooh costume."
- Paul Harper of nzherald.co.nz
