Every morning, six days a week, 72-year-old Wayne Morrison walks from his Balclutha neighbour’s letterbox up her sloping driveway to bring the Otago Daily Times to her door.
For the past three years, Mr Morrison has brought 95-year-old June Waters her newspaper — a simple act of kindness that speaks volumes.
Mr Morrison, a father of two and grandfather of four, spent 49 years at the local freezing works before retiring.
He volunteers at Cross Recreation Centre and with his wife of 45 years, Loesje, has lived next to June for five years.
Mrs Waters, a great-grandmother of 21, relies on a walking frame but is as sharp as ever and quick with a smile.
‘‘I get help from Wayne, Meals on Wheels, Access care ... I have family in and out regularly. Somebody does my garden. Somebody does my lawns. Bruce brings round my groceries. Ruth comes and does my housework."
Born in Gisborne and a Clutha resident since 1951, she proudly said: "I’ve still got it up top, my memory — which is better than the other way around."
Her recent award for 70 years’ service to the South Otago Women’s Institute is proof of her community spirit.
"She spent a lifetime helping others,” Mr Morrison, himself an ODT online subscriber, said.
"Now it’s our turn.”
