Five houseboats targeted at Merbein

One houseboat has been destroyed by fire, and five others broken into, on the Murray River.

NSW police say five houseboats at Merbein, near Mildura, were targeted on Monday night.

Thieves have smashed windows to get in and stolen items including tools.

One of the boats was found burnt out by its owner.

Police on both sides of the border are investigating.