Police uniforms, handcuffs and batons are among equipment stolen from the Te Awamutu Police Station, in Waikato.

Photo: RNZ / Claire Eastham-Farrelly

Police said the burglary happened on Tuesday, and the items might have been stolen by someone wanting to impersonate a police officer.

They were asking people who were approached by an officer in the area to establish their identity if they had any doubts.

Stab-resistant body armour and pepper spray was also taken from the station.

Impersonating a police officer is a crime and carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in prison and a fine of $15,000.

Police said an officer's personal car was also damaged on Wednesday, and the burglary was one of a series in Te Awamutu this week.