But Scott Weatherall is humbled by one response, a donation of $1000 to help replace some of the stolen gear, after his plight was publicised in the Otago Daily Times.
Mr Weatherall, who is a St John paramedic, water rescue squad member and surf life-saver, lost three bags of medical and water rescue gear, which was taken from his Nissan Terrano, between 7.30am on Saturday and 4pm on Sunday, while the vehicle was parked in South Rd.
Mr Weatherall was in Invercargill to cover as a surf lifesaver.
The theft meant Mr Weatherall was effectively out of action until the gear was returned or he could find replacement equipment.
The water rescue gear was one of 15 sets bought after fund-raising by squad members.
Mr Weatherall was lost for words yesterday when Moyle's Supervalue owner John Moyle donated $1000 to help him replace some of the "essentials" needed to get him back on the job.
"It's extremely humbling - pretty amazing," Mr Weatherall said.
"I don't know what to say. It's great that his business is keen to help me get back on track."
Mr Moyle said he admired the volunteer work Mr Weatherall did and was disgusted someone would steal lifesaving equipment.
He challenged other businesses to donate money to help Mr Weatherall get back to work as soon as possible.
"If we don't get the gear back, I'll have to hope for insurance. If we don't get insurance, we'll have to go cap-in-hand around the community and raise some more funds to replace it."
