Scottish gentleman - gone far too soon

Nick Hobson was a Scottish gentleman, a loving husband to Sheree (a born and bred Kiwi) and a devoted father to their two beautiful girls. A freediver, spear fisherman and underwater hockey representative for Great Britain and NZ he loved the water. He had completed a number of long-distance ocean swims raising money for Breast Cancer.

After extensive training, Nick left Mana in Wellington on February 25th to swim across the Cook Strait. He told his young girls, Phoebe 6, and Briar 8, that he would be home to kiss them good night. He died suddenly at the end of the swim, leaving a gaping hole in the hearts of so many in Scotland, England, America, and across NZ including Hawera, Auckland and Wellington. Nick touched everyone he met.

This Kiwi family after 6 years in America moved back to Wellington so Nick could lead a start-up furniture design business as they launched into global markets. On arriving in Wellington he and Sheree bought their forever home. As a close friend of Nick and his wife for over 15 years I cry every time I imagine how Sheree feels, as she faces a life planned with Nick now on her own, as a solo mother.

Anyone with children understands the enormity of the loss. Nick was the main breadwinner so the toll is both emotional and financial. Please support Sheree and her girls in this immensely challenging time. Funds raised will be used towards funeral costs, paying the mortgage and living costs for Sheree and their children.