Hunter highway patrol commander Senior Sergeant Tony Grace said the local patrol was part of the Newcastle operation, but would also keep an eye on hoon locations closer to home.

“We are aware of certain areas,” he said.

“With Newcastle concentrating on Kooragang Island, we will be monitoring up here in case they get pushed out and into our area.”

George Booth Drive at Buchanan and the Hunter Economic Zone at Kurri Kurri are two known hoon spots in the Hunter.

The Newcastle operation is targeted at illegal drag racers, drivers performing burn-outs and general dangerous drivers.

Hoons face deregistration and confiscation of their cars if caught.

Police will also target spectators engaging in trespass, underage drinking, offensive behaviour, traffic obstruction and public order offences.

“The illegal activity is attracting participants from Sydney, the Central Coast and across the Hunter,” Newcastle commander Superintendent John Gralton said.

“We have information about who is organising this illegal activity and we will be gathering evidence to prosecute them.” 

The police have also announced they would use evidence from social media and available CCTV to prosecute hoons.