My Kind Neighbour nomination

Amanda Neighbourly Lead from Te Kowhai

I'd like to nominate Sarah Stone from Te Kowhai.

Sarah has been spending most afternoon and evenings for ages, turning the tiny, disused, local Church Hall into a Christmas Grotto. She’s put it all together with power tools, creativity, her own money and a few donations. It’s like a walk through nativity which is really, really cool. There’s a miniature winter wonderland complete with teeny tiny train set, Christmas trees, interactive bits and pieces, a nativity scene and a dress up selfie station for the kids at the end.

Amongst work and family commitments Sarah's been tapping into reserves for most of this year, night after night, building this awesome walk-through wonderland. All for the benefit of the community and for complete strangers. Using her own money and time and expecting nothing in return than to give a little Christmas cheer to other people.

Sarah's had a big year. And it hasn't been easy. All Sarah has wanted to do is selflessly put some sparkle into children's eyes and share the story of Christmas.

I'm in awe of Sarah's determination to do this and her selflessness. Te Kowhai is lucky to have such an awesome person in the community who gives so much to others and expects nothing in return.

Thank you Sarah for bringing back some magic and sparkle to our little community.