The Ohai and Nightcaps communities are rallying to support their seriously ill policeman.

Constable Steve Ioane, a husband, father and 17 year police veteran, was last month diagnosed with cancer.

Ioane arrived in Ohai in January 2020 and according to Takitimu community worker Honorlea Mangion, took no time at all to become fully involved in the community.

"We hadn't had a policeman living in Ohai for quite a few years, since Mark [Wishart]," Mangion said.

"[Steve] works very hard. He's got a real passion and he loves this place... you can just tell by the way that he treats people really I guess... he just fitted in really well to be honest."

Ioane was really keen to do more stuff for local children and youth and was spearheading a Blue Light youth programme for Western Southland, she said.

He was also part of the Takitimu Community Welfare, a team of volunteers that mobilised to deliver meals and supplies during the COVID-19 lockdowns.

"We really do hope that he can fight this and he comes back. Because it'd be a massive loss if he didn't, I can tell you that now."

"Steve has just been a top bloke. He's a one in a million," Mangion said.

Ohai Fire chief John Hogg said the news was devastating.

He said Ioane had worked closely with the fire brigade and would always call in, if he was around, to see if they needed a hand.

He was always wanting to do something for the community, Hogg said.

Winton Police sergeant Greg Smith said the station was completely gutted for Ioane.

"We are trying to stay positive for him and to support him the best we can from a distance," Smith said, "[but] that’s really hard with COVID."

"He’s a good bloke, he’s a good family man and he is a big part of our team."

"When he gets over this issue he’s back to work with us, he has no intentions of going anywhere," Smith said.

"He loves it up there [in Ohai]. He wants to come back as soon as he can get back."

The local community is currently looking at fundraising options including selling cheese rolls, and possibly a community dinner.

A give-a-little page has also been set up for Constable Steve Ioane. CLICK HERE to view or donate.