Letter to the Editor, Thursday November 12, 2015

The day is saved

There we were. My daughter and I en route to Melbourne for the Derby and Melbourne Cup races. Ticking off our bucket list. Friday morning, Auckland airport, checking in at 4.45am.

Were we ready? Yes, and very excited... when the check-in person says "This passport has expired. You will not be flying today."

"But I have a current one, at home" I state.

We are directed to the Qantas 'help desk.' "We can book you on the 3 o'clock flight, they say, if you can go home and get your passport." "Home is in Kaitaia," I say, already planning how I could drive to Whangarei and meet my husband, who could also drive to Whangarei, bringing my passport with him.

We could do it, when suddenly it enters my head that the plane passes over our home at 7 every morning. I ring my husband and direct him to take my current passport to the airport and plead with Barrier Airlines to carry my passport down to me. Take money, I suggest.

Meanwhile my daughter and I walk over to the domestic airport to wait for Barrier Airlines to open so we can ask them personally from the Auckland end.

"Sure - we can do that," says this young, fresh person. "I'll personally call them at the Kaitaia airport and arrange it."

By 8am that morning he approaches me with my passport clutched in his hand. There was no charge. Qantas also required nothing from us.

We boarded the plane and left at 3pm, arriving several hours later than we expected but ready and able to enjoy the races.

The kindness of Barrier Airlines and Qantas, blew us away. We certainly want to publicly acknowledge their kindness and 'can do' attitudes. Thank you. Thank you.

Kaz
Takahue