The retired precision engineer is passionate about his vintage bike collection, which has a collective value of $45,000.

"But it's not about the money, it's the sentimental value that can't be replaced and I want them back. Some people collect stamps, I collect motorbikes and yes, they are my passion," he said.

The three bikes were stolen from the locked garage on the back-section property in Maeroa Rd in the early hours of Thursday morning. A neighbour told Mr Carpenter that her dogs went "berserk" about 3am.

The thieves were "well prepared", according to Mr Carpenter who believed those responsible had cased his property first.

"They used my tomato stakes to push the security light sensors out of the way, they used my ladder to unscrew light bulbs in the sensors and they knew exactly what was in my garage."

The three bikes included a 1928 BSA which had won Mr Carpenter the "oldest bike at the rally award" at the annual Cold Kiwi rally in 1977 and 1978. A 1951 Norton and 1926 Harley Davidson Pup were also stolen.

"I actually rode the BSA to Invercargill in 1982 with a couple of friends and other family members. We all went down for a vintage motorcycle rally that takes place every two years – I got that bike when I was 17 so there is a lot of history there."

Two motorbike engines were also taken from the garage in Mr Carpenter's wheelbarrow. "So I've lost that too."

Anyone with information about the stolen bikes can call Crimestoppers on 0800555111 or Hamilton police on 078586200.