The Auckland SPCA has taken action against the controversial Catcha Cray games.

In the games, punters attempt to snag themselves a live crayfish by using a mechanical claw to try and pick one up form a tank of animals.

Executive director Bob Kerridge says the crayfish are subjected to unnecessary suffering and they have taken steps to prevent further trauma. He says officers have visited the pubs sporting the games and made them inoperable.

Mr Kerridge says their investigation into the games is ongoing, and they have not yet ruled out laying charges.

He believes officers across the country will follow their lead.