Thieves have stolen artifacts from an archeological dig at a locked site in central Auckland.

The items were taken from the Chatham Building in Pitt St after the thieves illegally excavated an old well. It is believed they got away with a large haul.

Items left behind include bits of leather shoes, ceramics and ornaments dating to the pre-1900s.

The Historic Places Trust is calling it a crime against archaeology and theft of our cultural heritage. It believes some of the items may be put up for sale on Trade Me.

Police are investigating.