Police are appealing for information after 20 brand new laptops were stolen from a Hastings primary school.

The Acer 'Chromebooks', which are mini laptops, were stolen from Frimley School sometime between Friday September 22nd and Tuesday September 26th.

The laptops were still in their boxes, and taken from the school's reading recovery room. The theft means some students will be deprived of important learning aids.

Senior Constable Pehi Potaka said the theft has hit the school hard and is "particularly upsetting for the kids who have lost resources that will be hard to replace."

He said the laptops will likely be put on sale somewhere, and asked that if anybody is offered an Acer Chromebook or sees them advertised on social media to contact Police immediately.

"Thefts like this affect the whole community - dozens of kids will be missing out on great learning opportunities," Senior Constable Potaka said.

Information can be provided directly to Hastings Police on 06 831 0700 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.