Jeremy Tupaea, who has cerebral palsy, had his e-bike stolen in front of him on December 29.

A man with cerebral palsy says the theft of his customised e-bike has taken away his independence.

Jeremy Tupaea, from Papakura in south Auckland, said his world became a "little bit bigger" after he converted his push bike to an e-bike in late 2018.

It meant he could go about his day-to-day activities – such as grocery shopping or impulse trips to the fish and chip shop – without relying on others to get him there.

However, all he could do was watch as a man stole the bike from his garage on December 29, he said.

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"I got hurt running to the door to try to catch him."

Jeremy Tupaea/Supplied Jeremy Tupaea cannot currently work and is on a supported living benefit.

Tupaea is a qualified personal trainer but is unable to work due to his deteriorating mobility.

He is currently on the supported living benefit and is not able to replace his bike straight away.

It cost $1000 to buy plus $2300 to convert to an e-bike. It also has some minor tweaks, including customised pedals and handle bars.

STUFF E-bike sales are charging ahead, and are proving particularly popular among older riders (Video first published in 2018).

"I'm not as mobile as I used to be. I'll have to save up for quite some time," Tupaea said.

"I hope it's found."

Tupaea and some of his neighbours who witnessed the incident reported it to the police.

Counties Manukau detective sergeant John Swailes confirmed police were investigating the theft.

"Police have been making enquiries into this including speaking with neighbours and visiting second hand dealers."

Anyone who saw any suspicious behaviour in the area surrounding Arawa St on December 29 should contact Swailes at the Papakura Police or 105.

Alternatively, anyone with information can private message NZ Police on Facebook or phone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.