The principal of a Christchurch primary school said the theft of its 143-year-old bell has left its community hurt.
Donna Bilas of Addington Te Kura Taumatua said the bell, which was located in the school's Remembrance Garden, had been cut off its stand over the weekend.
"Our bell has been at our kura since its foundation in 1881," she said.
"We are absolutely hurt at the senselessness of this theft."
Bilas said the school has many traditions around the bell.
"All of our leavers ring it at the end of the year in a special ceremony, and every March 15, we ring it in memory of the shuhada who lost their lives in the mosque attack, which included a parent at the time."
One commenter on the school's Facebook post announcing the bell had been stolen said the theft was "so, so miserably mean".
"I hope it's returned pronto."
A spokesperson told 1News police received a report of theft from a school on Brougham Street on Monday morning.
"Inquiries were made, however at this time there are no further lines of enquiry."
Anyone with relevant information should contact police on 105.
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