Two people who stole a charity donation box from a Hastings petrol station have been described as the "lowest of the low" by police.

Security camera footage taken at the Heretaunga St business on January 11 shows two people approaching the counter and asking to buy cigarettes.

While the attendant's back is turned, one takes a donation box for Riding for the Disabled off the counter and stuffs it inside his hoodie.

He stands behind the first person, who completes the purchase of the cigarettes, and they walk out of the service station.

Inspector Andy Sloan described the theft as brazen and disgraceful.

"Stealing a charity donation box is the lowest of the low. You can't go much lower than that and these people obviously have no scruples or morals whatsoever," he said.

It was not known how much money was inside the box.

Anyone with information about the people in the footage should contact Hawkes Bay Police on 06 8310700, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

- APNZ