Supporting IHC, Women's Refuge, Sands NZ: in memory of Sandra D, who died in the 2023 Pukekohe Boxing Day Fire

Sandra Dunning passed away tragically in the 2023 Pukekohe Boxing Day Fire, yet she leaves behind a legacy of kindness and generosity.

Sandra was a truly devoted friend to so many people. She was a whirlwind of visits and calls: bringing with her home-made jam and baking; prepared meals to pop in the freezer; or anything else she knew you needed. For years she was a keen volunteer at the Pukekohe IHC Shop. To anyone in need, she would always offer help, even if she had only met them minutes before. She gave all of this freely, despite for most of her life having little money of her own.

With her booming, infectious laugh and complete lack of a filter, Sandra was the glue that held the people around her together. She connected people to each other; and extra effort was always given to support other women and older folk: Sandra was always there to help young or solo mums in need; and she was regular visitor to countless older people living alone or in rest homes.

This Givealittle is to support the IHC, Women’s Refuge, and Sands NZ, in memory of Sandra as a last good deed to celebrate her lifelong commitment to caring for others. Yet given that so many are struggling financially right now, Sandra would have wanted people to consider their own circumstances first: so please only give if you can afford to do so.

There will be a celebration of Sandra’s life in Pukekohe at 12 PM on Saturday 6th January. Further details for this are below in the first Page Update.