A Masterton man convicted of stealing $4000 from the Horse and Hound has been sentenced to intensive supervision, community work and ordered to repay the money at $20 a week.

Shane Warburton, 49, beneficiary, was appearing in Masterton District Court for sentence having earlier pleaded guilty to theft.

Judge Michael Behrens said he didn't have much to say to Warburton.

"You took $4000 because the opportunity arose and you obviously didn't think twice before taking it."

He sentenced Warburton to 9 months' intensive supervision with special conditions that include completing an alcohol and drug assessment.

Further to that Warburton was ordered to do 150 hours' community work starting after he has completed a residential programme he is on.