A Christmas story

When I was 13 years old my father walked out on the family. He disappeared from our lives six weeks before Christmas.

My mother was an immigrant with no family support and four young children to bring up. Our household was financially devastated just as the festive season was getting into full swing. Not a happy time.

Then a few days before Christmas, I came home from my weekend job to find my youngest sister hugely excited about a parcel that had been delivered. Some anonymous stranger had tipped off the local Lions Club, who had kindly donated a box of festive food, including chocolate biscuits, potato chips and other delicious, ‘naughty’ treats. Seeing my sister so excited about this is such a vivid memory!

Fast forward to the present day. I’ve made it a habit before Christmas to ask friends discreetly for the names of local families who are doing it hard. Then I make up some parcels similar to the one my family received all those years ago. 

Because Christmas is all about the children.

Paying it forward.

As you know, 2020 has been a difficult year so many people. Some of us are doing OK but other New Zealanders are struggling. Now is the time to think about the kids who aren’t having a great time.

So many of you are generous with your time and money, and I would love to hear your stories. Please do get in touch. And if you’ve been wondering how you might spread a little festive cheer, here are some ideas.

In a year that’s kept us all at home, how can we make home a better place? 

The Auckland City Mission is always there for those in need. Make a donation now and you can be sure it will do a load of good. 

Another charity I support is Lifeline. As you can imagine, they get a lot of calls over the holidays. They would welcome your donation too. 

Here’s wishing you the very best for the festive season, and a fabulous start to 2021.

Office hours over the holidays.

Our office will be closed from 20 December 2020 until 12 January 2021. Bevan will be enjoying a well-earned break at Whangamata, so do say hello if you spot him on the beach.

Sue will be based at home (in her ‘Covid office’) over the break. She’s available for Zoom and phone calls regarding any urgent mortgage or insurance queries you might have.