The Air Force has helped catch six groups taking paua illegally in Hawke's Bay.

An AgustaWestland A109 Light Utility Helicopter has completed patrols of about 300 kilometres of coastline as part of a two day operation with the Ministry for Primary Industries.

Air Commodore Kevin McEvoy said they focused on the coast from Akitio to Mahia Peninsula.

He said there was significant activity around Mahia yesterday when the patrol encountered several groups behaving suspiciously.

Air Commodore McEvoy said working with fishing officers on the ground, the patrol successfully intercepted a group of individuals being targeted as part of the operation.