A simple kiwi dream

"Be the change you want to see in the world" ~ Author Unknown

** Recently Basil suffered horrific injuries when a gas valve was accidentally left open after he and a friend uninstalled the old gas fridge inside his campervan. This caused gas to leak inside the camper when the tap was turned on later that night. As Basil cooked his dinner on an open flame gas stove, the build up of vapor ignited causing a major explosion.

Basil, is a 65 year old retired forestry worker who, after the loss of his wife, chose to live a simple life off the land.

What makes this man so special? Simply his story. As someone I consider a dear friend, Baz represents true kiwi selflessness.

I met Baz and his family almost 15 years ago. Through Baz and his wife Annie, I learned the meaning of gratitude and manaakitanga. Tragically, Annie passed away unexpectedly from cancer in 2008. It was heartbreaking watching Basil's ups and downs over the next few years as he struggled with the loss of Annie, his love of 25 years. From my heart I can say that I have watched this man go through many trials. If there is someone I believe deserves a simple gift of kindness, it has to be this old soul I know as Baz.

Without going into too much detail, there is one selfless act that stands out in my mind. Baz sold the family home he first bought with his wife soon after they met. A large part of this money he gifted to help both family and friends with a house deposit into their first homes. With what was left he bought his beloved campervan and began a simple kiwi life of motorhoming. That was, until his campervan was destroyed last night. He now has no place to call home.

To read the article of his accident only epitomises the man that he is. I guess the question is, how far would he go for others?

Without consideration for his own safety, legs and arms badly burnt, he managed to pull himself into the driver's seat and drove the burning camper to an isolated area out of harms way of others. To be honest, I would expect no less of Baz and so I would love to gift him back his simple, "Kiwi Dream"

Please, all he needs is a little help. Every dollar counts. If you're able, help him by donating. The proceeds will go towards funding him a new campervan.

His daughter has given permission for an account to be set up in her name, updates will follow on this page as they come in.

Nga mihi nui

Lyn

**Details on this page have been changed to reflect an accurate account of events leading up to the accident. Please note, the accident did not occur due to a spontaneous gas bottle explosion. The cause of the accident, although unintentional, was preventable and due to an open valve after removal of a gas fridge. If you are concerned about the safety of your own gas bottles or gas appliances please contact a registered gas fitter or relevant qualified professional to discuss your concerns. Take home message: Dont Be A Baz, Be Safe**