Tachikawa losses: Rotorua generosity stuns family

AMAZING SUPPORT: Brian Pohatu and Ashley Mosen say they have been overwhelmed with support from the Rotorua community after Mr Pohatu lost his job at Tachikawa.

Rotorua has some awesome people, according to former Tachikawa employee Brian Pohatu.

Mr Pohatu lost his job at the failed timber mill last week, and with two children under 3, he and his partner, Ashley Mosen, were already struggling to make ends meet.

The couple are waiting on a redundancy payout, but have no idea if and when it will happen. However, the generosity of Rotorua residents has almost left them lost for words.

"For the first week we were left dumbfounded and didn't know what to do.

"But all the community support has just blown us away big time. We don't know how to thank them all because they have helped us so much," he said.

Ms Mosen said the community had been amazing.

"Our cupboards have food, freezer is absolutely full of meat, we have nappies, formula and the list just goes on.

"This week I've been surrounded by the most kind and loving people around Rotorua.

"How do you possibly say thank you to so many people?

"I'm beyond humbled, honestly, it's been a life-changing experience," she said.

"The best part is knowing my babies are safe and now we are stepping forward and are more positive about it all."

Ms Mosen said her week was topped off by another amazing gesture by the staff and children at Kawaha Point Primary School.

"All the kids brought in cans and we got a gift card for the Warehouse so we can buy our kids some toys for Christmas.

"We just want to let people know how much we appreciate everything, from strangers who are so willing to give."