The future for Phoebe Hoterene and her three young children looked bleak when partner and father Phillip Tawhai died in a house fire.
But a month on from the tragedy and the family of four are coping thanks to the overwhelming generosity of Northlanders.
The 29-year-old Whangarei father died in a house
fire that destroyed the family home of five years in Jack St, Otangarei, on August 30.
Fire officials believe the fire started when the pan he was using to cook a meal caught fire.
Mr Tawhai, also known as Rabbit, was overcome by smoke and died in a bedroom.
Members of the public responded when radio station Classic Hits started an appeal to help the devastated young family. The response has been overwhelming.
"It's been awesome. People that don't even know us have helped and donated things for the kids and the house. I feel overwhelmed," Ms Hoterene said.
"It has helped us be an ordinary family even though we are missing one important piece."
She said the children - 5-year-old Jahstys, 4-year-old Pere, and baby Kodee - asked about their dad and still became upset.
The loss is heart wrenching for Ms Hoterene.
"I miss my mate like crazy but I'm trying not to show it. I can't describe it ... it makes my heart heavy and just hurts too much sometimes."
But thanks to generous and compassionate Northlanders there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
"When I walk into my house, I'm happy, I want to be here. I feel a lot stronger and I have a purpose in life and that's to make sure my children are well looked after. I'm so grateful to everyone who has helped me back on my feet. I'm humbled by by what people have given ... arohanui to everyone."
Today family will gather at the new home for a barbecue.
"We will be thinking of Phillip."
Two-and-a-half weeks after the fatal fire, Ms Hoterene went through the ashes looking for treasured mementos.
She recovered a 21st glass key belonging to Mr Tawhai. It is now hanging in a small shed at the back of the new property. It's a garden shed that has been dubbed "daddy's room". Ms Hoterene and the children go out there and sit, to remember what a great dad and partner he was.
