We are writing to say thank you so much for the amazing holiday we had on Waiheke Island.

Thanks to you and your team of sponsors, we had the most amazing holiday that we wouldn't have been able to do without the generosity of total strangers. This blew us away! The kindness was overwhelming, and the opportunity that we got to just have fun as a family was priceless. From the moment we got on the ferry to the moment we left makes a time we will never forget!

The house was amazing! Pulling into the driveway and taking in the picturesque views, the pool and hot tub which were very well used throughout our stay (day and night), cooking together, and dining with amazing views. Having a stocked up fridge and pantry on arrival, with everything we needed, was so thoughtful, and meant we could spend even more special family time together at the house.

The kids' favorite part (apart from the pool) was the tap that dispensed hot, cold, and sparkling water! The meals provided by both restaurants were impeccable, we felt very special, (like royalty really) the staff were so welcoming and friendly, and just made us feel right at home. The little community theatre was so impressive and comfortable, Bernie almost fell asleep! Wisca has some really cool stuff, we all found something to take away with us which was nice! The trip to StonyRidge, despite the weather stopping the tour, was a nice experience, nice and chill, and the wine was so good! The massage was greatly accepted and enjoyed by myself (Crystal) as Bernie decided it was not for him. The gifts on arrival were such a pleasant surprise, we all love our gifts and the kids were wearing their shirts and didn't want to take them off. Bernie was so thrilled to have his own voucher to spend at 'Out There' - such a treat for him.

Ziplining was exhilarating, scary, and something that anyone that goes to Waiheke absolutely must do!!! I (Crystal) was about to pike out and stay behind while the others went, but I was encouraged by the lovely guides who kept encouraging me along the way. Sue at Shop the rock was so kind and welcoming, Bernie and the girls went in the first time and when we went in the second time she said: "oh it's the whole lovely family, welcome!" it felt like we had known her for a long time.

The vibe that we got from everyone we encountered was just breathtaking, and we will never forget it!! Hopefully one day we can find our way back and pop in to say hello to everyone!! Thank you so much again! from the bottom of our hearts!

The Shannon Family (Bernie, Crystal, Kayla, Megan and Myles)

The Shannon Family experience

29 October 2022