Westpac shares touching story after $1300 cash pouch is returned to Blenheim couple

The kind-hearted man returned the significant sum to a Blenheim branch of Westpac. Photo / Westpac NZ

A kind stranger has brightened one Kiwi couple’s Easter by returning a pouch of money they had recently lost.

The small fabric sack, which contained $1300 in cash and a Westpac debit card, was returned to the bank’s Blenheim branch this week.

Westpac NZ shared the heartwarming story on their Facebook page today, including a message from the happy couple.

They were “blown away” that the man, who was not a customer at the bank, had decided to hand in the huge find.

“It’s so cool that there are honest people around us. Thank you so much for helping us get the money back!

“My partner was so upset yesterday, and your call completely changed our day. She’s contacted him, thanked him, and even brought him a little gift.”

The Blenheim branch gifted the man a king-size block of chocolate to show their appreciation for his efforts.

Several commenters were quick to point out the humorous timing of the post, which has fallen on April Fool’s Day.

“I’m glad this wasn’t an April Fool’s joke, how lovely that someone handed it”, one woman wrote.

Others shared her respect for the stranger’s goodwill, praising him for his honesty.

“Need more people like this”, one person said, while another commented, “There is hope for humanity”.

The kindness of strangers has made national news in the past, with several stories of benevolent returns.

In 2024, a “good Samaritan” rejected a reward for returning the missing e-bike of television personality Mike King.

The woman had reportedly confronted the bike thief, telling the person, “That’s my nephew’s bike, and you are going to give that bike back.”

King said the Tauranga local would not accept anything in return for her heroic actions, refusing his offer of $500 with the simple assurance she had been happy to help.