Paint was also splattered on the footpath.

Three of Auckland's most expensive stores have received an unwanted makeover at the hands of paint-wielding vandals.

The metallic gold-clad store fronts of luxury brands Gucci, Prada and Louis Vuitton on Queen Street were defaced with large black tags and white paint splatters.

It is suspected the vandalism took place sometime last night or early morning.

BEVAN READ/FAIRFAX NZ Louis Vuitton and Gucci stores at the bottom of Queen Street in Auckland were vandalised.

Centre manager at Heart of the City Auckland, Tania Loveridge, said it was an "isolated event" but "incredibly disappointing".

"This is a totally unacceptable incident that we don't tolerate."

Auckland Council's community safety programme manager Brian Taylor said the council has a "zero tolerance approach" because graffiti in the CBD can impact the "perceptions of safety" for tourists or visitors.

Taylor said rapid removal and increased surveillance are the best measures that can be taken.

"Quicker removal means less recognition for the vandals. There are over 100,000 incidents across the region per year but most are removed before the public sees it," he added.

Taylor said the event seems to be targeted as the three stores are some of the most expensive shops on Queen Street.

The store manager at Gucci said they would not comment on the issue. Prada and Louis Vuitton were not able to be contacted.