Why Carron’s our favourite neighbour

Carron lives a few doors down from the complex and was keen to meet her neighbours when they first moved in.

When she saw the community room, she volunteered to run a free after-school activity, tapping into her vast experience as a teacher.

Now Wednesday afternoons at the complex are a hive of activity with around 12 children showing up to learn how to cook and how they can look after the environment by using compost and recycling.

Carron uses games to teach the children how to tell the difference between landfill and recycling, and why it matters. Then they get busy in the kitchen, preparing delicious kai such as tacos, vegetable soup, club sandwiches and fruit salad.

“I’ve always loved being with children when they are engaged and learning, it’s the most miraculous thing,” says Carron.

“And I have made lots of new friends in the neighbourhood. I walk through the complex on my way to pick up a coffee each morning and there is always someone who waves and says hello.”

“Carron is a very special lady,” says Siu, whose children are eager participants in the workshops. “In a world where most people value money over time, she gives her time just to do a nice thing for our kids. I appreciate her so much.

“My kids are very proud of their cooking and always call me down to try whatever they have made. And I’ve noticed that the children living here have become closer by spending time together in the workshops. They’re supportive of each other.”

Kirsten, Coordinator for Community Development and Engagement, says Carron’s work has had a huge impact in the neighbourhood with children taking great pride in keeping the apartment complex pristine.

“I have seen an improvement in the way the kids work as a team and look out for each other. They’ve created rules on how to behave in the community room and then self-manage each other, it’s brilliant.

“Carron’s contribution to this community has created a sense of connectedness and belonging for the children in this complex. She is a champion who embodies community spirit and a valued neighbour who our tangata care about.”