Support Thomas' Whanau in this devastating time

We are devastated to have lost, Thomas Whare Cullen, treasured Grandfather, Husband and Father so suddenly on 9 May 2022. Thomas was a man who put his family first and he was the main supporter of his wife, children and many dearly loved mokopuna who are all coming to terms with their grief of the loss of losing someone so treasured.

Thomas loved his job working as a talented Line Mechanic for Downer maintaining the streetlights around Hamilton which he had done so for over 40 years. He knew every streetlight, lamp, corner and tree in the city and was sought out by the team for advice and knowledge.

Thomas was popular and well-respected in his community and was known by his teammates for being larger than life, and always wanting to have a laugh. He was a local legend and held great mana in everything he did. He was always willing to offer a helping hand and he built strong relationships with all those around him.

We are wanting to support Thomas' whanau in this shocking and difficult time, to alleviate some of their financial burden as they adjust to life without him.

This Koha will be used to support the whanau with funeral expenses, bills and the mortgage of the family home in Matapōuri, where one of his daughters and several of his mokopuna still live in. Thomas built the family home and was always known to be pottering around fixing everything with several metres of electrical tape, and some paint.