Youth crime appears to be surging in Christchurch

Multiple videos have been circulating of children being assaulted on their way home from school.

The videos have been shared with our newsroom, and police have confirmed they're treating the investigation as a priority.

Stuff reports alleged crimes in the city are at their highest levels in almost a decade.

Canterbury West Coast Secondary Principals' Association president Phil Holstein says the videos are another piece fitting into that sad picture.

He says the behaviour comes from a small minority, but the impact is significant - and addressing it is a challenge.