Delivering the Te Awamutu Courier for 15 years

For more than 15 years Colleen Bryant faithfully delivered the Te Awamutu Courier rail, hail or shine.

For more than 15 years Colleen Bryant faithfully delivered the Te Awamutu Courier rail, hail or shine.

The 73-year-old was well-liked by local businesses and individuals who say she was always punctual and friendly.

But her paper run came to an end when she rapidly became unwell this year - and people who she delivered the newspaper to are wondering where she is.

Last month she moved into the secure dementia unit at CHT Highfield Home & Hospital after becoming diagnosed with dementia.

Mrs Bryant says she misses delivering the Te Awamutu Courier.

"I miss the many friends I made," she says.

"I liked walking the streets. It wasn't boring - I used to stop in at people's homes for a cup of tea."

Te Awamutu resident Lesley Ngatai says Mrs Bryant often delivered the newspaper before she was out of bed.

"She delivered the paper rain, hail or snow," she says.

Dairyworx staff member Dave Crump says Mrs Bryant was chatty and always on time.

He had a box of chocolates ready for her birthday in July.

"But she never showed up and we all wondered where she had gone," he says.

Mrs Bryant says she would love any visitors who are interested in catching up.

CHT manager Lulu Dayaram says Mrs Bryant enjoys walking around the garden and keeping active.

"Colleen is very caring with a wonderful sense of humour - it makes sense that she was a popular delivery lady."