Help for the Holts! Support Reuben and his family during his recovery and rehabilitation.
Help us funds to support Reuben Holt and his family, while he recovers from burns sustained in a petrol fire accident on Stewart Island.
Oban, Southland
On Saturday, May 17th, 18-year-old Reuben Holt was involved in a petrol fire accident, suffering severe burns to his face, arms, and chest. Reuben was airlifted from Stewart Island/Rakiura, where he and his family live, and transported to Christchurch Hospital. Since then, he has undergone extensive surgery, including skin grafts to his right arm and hand. The road to recovery will be long, requiring further surgeries and intensive physiotherapy.
As a community, we on Stewart Island/Rakiura would like to offer our support to Reuben and his family — Rowan, Brendan, Brook, Phoebe and Perrin — by helping with some of the upcoming expenses they may face. These could include travel to and from the island, accommodation, and any costs associated with the recovery period.
"Life's roughest storms prove the strength of our anchors"
Stewart Island Rakiura's involvement (page creator)
I'm one of the approximately 400 residents of Stewart Island/Rakiura. The Holt family are a vibrant part of our island family. We're all familiar with Reubens cheerful smile and wave as he works on the island slipway, on or around his beloved boats.
Use of funds
The funds raised will go towards any travel, accommodation, or other costs associated Reuben's recovery and ongoing rehabilitation.
Latest update
Reuben is Home 12 June 2025
Hello everyone - we are very happy to say that we have arrived home to our place on Rakiura. It’s been an overwhelming and turbulent time for the Holt family - but we are all doing ok! Very very tired, but ok. All of your support, encouragement and love has been felt and so much appreciated.
We are just taking our time to gather up some speed, get a few good nights sleep in our own beds and keep cosy and warm. Reubens progress has been quite mind blowing- and all the surgeons, consultants, nurses and therapists have been completely amazed by his rapid healing. He has maintained his wonderful sense of humour and kindness throughout it all which I’m sure has helped his steady way forward.
Looking forward to seeing you all soon and thank you again.
Nga Mihi - the Holt family x
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