There are 61 new Covid-19 cases in New Zealand. That makes a total of 708 confirmed and probable cases with 14 people in hospital.
The family of a Far North woman who dedicated her life to teaching in small New Zealand schools are reeling after she died in a tragic accident just hours after the national lockdown began.
Gena Shepherd, 81, died on March 26 on the property she owned with her husband of59 years, Robin.
Her death was the result of a tractor-related accident and will be referred to the Coroner.
Gena Shepherd. Photo / NZME
Her son Peter Shepherd spoke to the Herald today about the tragedy, saying it had been "very difficult" to lose his beloved mother at a time where many of the family could not leave their own homes.
After Gena's accident emergency services were called but sadly her life could not be saved.
Peter Shepherd said his father was doing as well as he could.
Immediate family lived at an adjacent property so they had been able to support him in person.
But the situation was hard.
And it was made harder because under the rules of the lockdown, no funerals can be held.
"In a way this has been easier because people have been prepared for all sorts of weird and strange things to happen during the lockdown," he said.
"People are in that war mentality - the 'we've got to get on with things" mentality, so people are just saying 'we've got to get on with it'.
"But it's very, very hard for our family and friends not to be able to visit, especially since mum was so interwoven in the community."
Gena Shepherd was originally from Auckland but after marrying Robin - also a teacher - the pair moved around the country working in small and isolated schools.
Her death notice said she was a respected friend of many in New Zealand and overseas.
"She touched the lives of hundreds as a teacher, artist, friend, animal breeder and trainer," it read.
"She will be sorely missed."
Peter Shepherd said a memorial service would be held as soon as possible after the lockdown.
"It's just unfortunate," he said.
"It's very tough in these times because we can't have funerals, we can't go to cremations and things like that so things for us are extremely difficult."
