More than meals: The 93-year-old still showing up for his community

Most people would call it a day at 93 years old after 30 years of service. Not Neil Hume. He’s still behind the wheel in West Auckland, still turning up for people on his New Zealand Red Cross Meals on Wheels route, and still finding purpose in every meal dropped at the door.

Neil’s Meals on Wheels volunteering began after his wife died in 1994, when he was looking for something purposeful to do with his time. What started as a weekly run soon became a long-term commitment, first on a regular roster and, in more recent years, as a relief driver, ready to help when needed. 

“As long as I can keep driving, I’ll be there,” Neil says.

More than a meal at the door

For Neil, the real value of the role has always been in the connections – the quick chat, the familiar faces, and the knowledge that he may be the only person some people see all day.

“I feel like I am doing something good for people, and seeing the smile on people’s faces is just wonderful,” he says.

“I get a lot of pleasure out of it. It’s never been a chore, and I guess that’s why I’m still doing it.”

Over the years, Neil has seen Meals on Wheels evolve. He says deliveries are more reliable, and more people now leave chilly bins outside rather than meeting drivers at the door. But the purpose, he says, has stayed the same.

Inspiring the next generation of volunteers 

Neil also spends time showing new volunteers the ropes, including fellow West Aucklander Chris McCarthy, who trained with him earlier this year.

Chris says his training shift with Neil made an immediate impression, describing the retired carpet retailer as “a true legend” with everything organised and carefully prepared before they even left the collection point.

Neil had highlighted the run sheet, made notes, and let Chris take charge of the deliveries while he drove. Chris says Neil knew the area like the back of his hand and passed on practical tips in a way that was calm, clear, and encouraging.

What has stayed with Chris most is Neil’s warmth: “He is one of the greats of kindness.”

75 years on, Meals on Wheels is still making a difference  

Chris’s own perspective shows why Meals on Wheels still matters so much in communities across Aotearoa New Zealand after 75 years. 

For 75 years, volunteers have been the driving force behind the New Zealand Red Cross Meals on Wheels delivery service.

“It’s more than just delivering food. It’s about connection, community, and mental wellbeing – and Neil really showed me that.”

Chris also describes the role as personally meaningful, saying it gives him a sense of purpose and leaves him feeling he has done something helpful. 

“The thanks from clients is so heartfelt, and the small conversations on doorsteps lift recipients and drivers alike.”

That sense of purpose is exactly what Neil has gained from the service for decades. His story is a reminder of what makes Meals on Wheels such an enduring part of New Zealand Red Cross: practical help delivered with kindness, consistency, and care.

And at 93, he is still showing up for his community, proving that volunteering has no age limit.

More information 

This year marks 75 years of the New Zealand Red Cross Meals on Wheels delivery service. Volunteers are at the heart of the service, generously giving their time to deliver not only hot meals, but also care and connection to people in their communities. 

We are truly grateful to all Meals on Wheels volunteers, including many who have been involved for decades, with some contributing for more than 50 years – an extraordinary commitment and community spirit. 

Our Meals on Wheels service supports older people, those recovering from illness or injury, and others who live at home and may struggle to prepare hot, nutritious meals for themselves.

If you would like more information about Meals on Wheels and how New Zealand Red Cross supports the service, find out more below. 
Get Meals on Wheels 

Lead photo: Meals on Wheels volunteer driver Neil Hume shows new volunteer Chris McCarthy the ins and outs of Meals on Wheels deliveries.