Struggling families get festive surprise

From left, Anaru Naera, Karen Kaka, Merle Stirling and Sarah Quinn with just a few of the donations for a Christmas present drive organised by staff at Te Runanga A Iwi O Ngapuhi in Kaikohe. Photo / Peter de Graaf

In a Far North town Ngapuhi Christmas elves have been making a list and checking it twice to find out which Kaikohe kids need a festive surprise.

Te Runanga A Iwi O Ngapuhi has joined forces with community groups to ensure struggling families still get some festive cheer.

The runanga has received donations from sponsors and the public and all the toys and food collected were distributed yesterday to about 40 Kaikohe families who Ngapuhi Iwi Social Services identified as struggling.

Runanga spokesman Tio Taiaki said the idea that "no child should go without Christmas" was brought to Kaikohe by Karen Kaka, Merle Stirling and Sarah Quinn.

Ms Stirling works for the Ngapuhi Asset Holding Company and Ms Quinn at the Ngapuhi Service Station, also known as Caltex Kaikohe. Together with Ms Kaka, receptionist at the runanga, the group approached businesses and community groups for their support.

"It's firstly for the kids because it will mean that as kids should be, they will be excited and have something to celebrate, some hope and something to look forward too."

Mr Taiaki said the campaign started after staff noticed several families who were going without. He could not say how many whanau in Kaikohe were struggling but said it was probably "more than we are aware".