The Returned Services Association says it is "horrified" that a Poppy Day donation box was stolen from a shopping mall.
Police are seeking help from the public to identify a man they wanted to question after the box was taken from Pak'n Save at Westfield Riccarton in Christchurch on Sunday afternoon.
Police said they wanted to speak to a woman pushing a pram who might be associated with the man.
It was estimated there was $300-$500 in the collection box.
Christchurch RSA Russ Barron said he was "horrified" to learn of the theft.