An auto store in Waimate has been asked to remove a sign featuring a swastika.

The sign, which appeared on Rayner Autos earlier this week, has caused outrage among some residents.

When contacted by 1News the owner of the store Jacob Rayner said: “I’m not worried about looking bad.”

Waimate Mayor Craig Rowley said he had “no idea” why the sign was put up and said that the matter was now being resolved.

One person, who wanted to remain anonymous, said: “I saw it myself today and [felt] rather disgusted personally.”

The RSA in Waimate contacted the council as soon as they were made aware of the sign.

A spokesperson for the RSA said “we find it offensive, its a symbol of racism and intimidation”.

The RSA had a committee meeting yesterday, which a police officer attended, where they expressed their concerns.

“We have people who gave their lives to stop that rubbish,” the spokesperson said.

Police confirmed they had received a complaint “regarding signs displaying a swastika on a building on the corner of Slee and Shearman streets on Monday”.

“This imagery has no place in the community.

“The Waimate District Council has engaged with the person responsible to have the signs removed.

“Police will not be taking further action at this time.”