An Update From Osher and MIchael
22 July 2026
Dear Friends,
It's been 4 months since the Autumn Equinox fire made us homeless and on the path of resilience and gratitude.
We have had four successive accommodations, and welcome another in October.
Various working bees and volunteer hours have transformed a bomb site into a blank canvas that reflects our projections of a rebuild.
In June a young skilful Islander with digger and truck hauled four truckloads of remaining well-sorted debris. Friends with chain saw downed over 30 dead or damaged trees, mostly tall manuka. The result visually expanded our boundaries, setting the stage for the beginnings of foundation work on, most likely two small living units.
In the photo below, Michael's flattened office is off to the left, awaiting his careful search for family photos and other surprising survivors.
Last week we covered the damaged soil with two cubic meters of garden mix, plus layers of scattered grass seeds to restore nutrients to the soil.
Friends with building skills are approaching us with plans and recommendations as we prepare for a series of weekend working bees.
We are still fund-raising toward the costs of the first cabin, and welcoming items that you may be farewelling, such as an aluminium ladder, wheelbarrow, electric drill, untreated sections of decking, plywood, etc.
Thank you again for living and sharing the spirit of community.
We are grateful to you all for your loving and continuing support.
Heart to Heart
Osher and Michael
