In New Zealand

As we celebrate Dunedin turning five as a refugee settlement location, we have met young people with refugee backgrounds who told us how life in Dunedin is going and what their hopes and dreams are.

Five days before Christmas, Kathleen Morris watched her husband suffer from a cardiac arrest. She spent the next 10 minutes performing life-saving CPR. Her message to everyone is simple: be prepared by taking a first aid course. 

It took years for Alia Al Mohamad to build her successful career in Syria, but the war took it all away. Thankfully, her passion and fortitude were left intact.

Olivier Lacoua, a strong supporter of ours, challenged himself to run 100 marathons to raise money for New Zealand Red Cross. In April, his incredible goal was finally achieved. How did he do it? Why? 

Two years ago, a young former refugee named Eyob Jambo Teshome was about to embark on the next stage of his settlement journey: attending university. This was made possible with the support of a scholarship from Beca, and now, Eyob and Beca share how it’s all going.

Many people in Edgecumbe were unprepared when, on 6 April 2017, the Rangitaiki River breached a stopbank, which caused widespread flooding across the whole town. One of these residents was Vicky Richards, who lost her home that day.

Imagine one day, the walls of your home start shaking, the sounds of our tūī are replaced by those of loud explosions, fresh air changes to the smell of burning and death, and blue skies are hidden behind grey smoke. Imagine Aotearoa is no longer safe. Bullets and bombs have become the new normal. What would you do?

Nisrine Zarzar’s story is one that makes your heart clench, highlights a mother’s instinct for survival and reminds you of how strong women can be.

Rahaf Almabaid, a talented writer and student, will tackle any challenges that come her way to reach her dreams.

From 15-21 March, hundreds of good people across Aotearoa were seen doing good things in support of our annual Red Cross Appeal. 

2020 was a year unlike any other. Aotearoa New Zealand faced floods, landslips, fires and a global pandemic, and we know that more disasters will continue to happen. 

We know emergencies can happen anywhere and at any time. Help us get ready for whatever is around the corner.