New town provides new life for father and son

The father and son duo were living in the North Island when they made the bold decision to hop in their car and drive almost the entire length of the country in search of a better life in Invercargill.

“We weren’t happy where we were and wanted a new beginning, to start fresh. So, we pretty much packed up all of our stuff into the car and drove down. It was a massive adventure,” Rob says.

It was hard when they first arrived in Invercargill. They had very little money, no work and ended up in emergency housing.

“I knew I needed to find stable work and get us out of there,’’ says Rob.

It was after a visit to the Ministry of Social Development’s office that Rob made a spur of the moment decision to knock on the door of the neighbouring business to see if they had any work.

The neighbouring business turned out to be local charity Koha Kai, who provide training and employment for the disability community. They also provide lunches in schools across Southland and a low-cost meal delivery service throughout the country.

Chief executive Janice Lee says Rob made an instant impression on the team.

“Rob came in unannounced. We found out he had a bit of a green thumb and he’s passionate about helping people, so what better place for him to work than our garden tunnel houses,’’ she says.

Koha Kai offered him a part-time job and Rob now works for them, helping them to grow the vegies which they use in the meals they prepare.

“He’s personable, he’s always smiling and singing and he’s just a great person to have around,’’ says Janice.

Around the same time, Rob and his son were offered a new Kainga Ora home in Appleby, Invercargill. Having both a stable home and a regular income have been life-changing for Rob and Tamawhero.

“I’m really enjoying school down here. There’s heaps of activities and sports to get involved in and it makes you want to turn up every day, which wasn’t the case for me up North,” Tamawhero says.

“His grades have picked up as well,” Rob says.

“We were really lucky to get this place. It’s been a big lifesaver for us and given us the fresh start we were after. We appreciate everything we have here now, every day is a blessing.”