Major step in toddler's recovery

The Martinbrough toddler who was severely burnt while lighting a candle in memory of her twin sister last month has been moved out of intensive care.

Arna Hopkins, 3, was flown to Auckland's Middlemore Hospital in September and since then has had 14 trips to theatre.

She was moved into the Kidz First children's ward on Thursday.

Her uncle and family spokesman Kane Hopkins said the move came as a relief.

"That is a big deal for everyone as this week has been especially difficult for [parents] Regan and Penny.

"They are both thoroughly relieved to be moving into the next phase of treatment for Arna - rehabilitation and scar management."

Mr Hopkins said the medical team was happy with the girl's progress.

"As for Arna, the best part of her week was briefly wearing the pretty dress that Regan promised her to replace the one that caught alight," he said.

"She is a girlie girl and loves dresses and bags so that would have meant a lot to her."

He said the family was grateful to the medical team, especially plastic and reconstructive surgeon Richard Wong-She.

A bank account set-up to help the Hopkins family after Arna's accident is now being closed and funds have been passed to the family.

Further enquiries or offers of support in relation to Arna or the Hopkins Family can be made directly to reganhopkins@gmail.com

The Friends of the Hopkins Family wish to sincerely thank all of those who have shown support by generously donating money and time to support Arna and her family throughout her recovery.

They wished Arna the best in her continued recovery.