Commonwealth Games athlete's car stolen in Bay of Plenty while he competes in the Gold Coast

New Zealand Commonwealth Games beach volleyball team Ben O'Dea, left, and Sam O'Dea at Mt Maungaui prior to leaving for the games. Photo / George Novak

Commonwealth Games beach volleyball athlete Ben O'Dea has been hit by a cruel theft at home while he's away competing in the Gold Coast.

Along with his brother Sam, Ben has won the first three matches, against Cyprus and Mozambique as well as England on Sunday night.

But back at Mt Maunganui, Ben has had his 4WD vehicle taken from outside his house.

Late last week, he shared the unfortunate news on Facebook.

"Long shot, but if anyone sees my truck licence plate KUW392 on the roads or in a ditch let me know or give the post a share," he posted.

Ben O'Dea in his truck, which has been taken from outside his house.

"Unless it was towed for some unknown reason from the front of my house... it was stolen last night.

"It is now the new farm truck for someone I'm thinking but worth a shot."

A police spokesperson on Monday morning confirmed the theft had been reported and the vehicle was still missing.

Beach volleyball is making its first appearance at the Commonwealth Games and the O'Dea brothers Sam, 27, and Ben, 25, were considered gold medal prospects in the men's competition.

The duo defeated Cyprus 2-1 in the first beach volleyball match ever staged at a Commonwealth Games.

On Sunday night, they also saw off the strong England combination of Chris Gregory and Jake Sheaf 2-1.