It’s the last tour for Dad

Kia ora tatou

First of all I wanted to thank every single one of you for your tautoko and support for Wi over this incredibly tough but treasured time. The putea that has been generously donated was put towards a trip to Wellington in between chemo treatments for Dad to have his wrap party in Petone in December. Many of you were able to make it - about 80 in fact - which, considering we had a 5 day lead in time, was pretty incredible!

The remainder of the funds so far have been put towards things like massages, decent coffee and things that Dad wants to do when his energy allows. There's talk of 'getting in de chopper' so we will see if this COVID situation will ease off so we can hook up a chopper flight over Whangarei.

Since I started this page, a lot has happened. Dad is now living in Whangarei back to a place that holds many special memories for our whanau (Dad grew up here) and is much closer to Hokianga. Some days are tough, but he is tougher. He is still on chemo treatments and taking everything in his stride and doing bloody well considering. I've somehow managed to get him to slow down from running a schedule "to the second" haha - no easy feat for you broadcasting alumni!

Thanks again everyone, the love and support that has been shown to Wi and our whanau has been humbling and heart-warming to say the least. If you have the chance to make it north and want to visit, just drop myself or Wi a line. Every phone call makes his day.

Sending love from the winterless north (26 degrees today!)

from our whanau to yours