Rotorua locals are upset after a much loved statue was stolen.

The bronze statue of a stray dog named Harawene has been cut from its base and taken.

It was put up following her death in 2008.

Fiona Cairns, who led the fundraising committee to build the statue, says it'll be less worth than what the thieves think.

"I would say they think they're going to sell it and make a few dollars. It's a hollow statue, she doesn't weigh that much."  

LISTEN ABOVE