There’s a big name among a group of 70-something-year-olds taking on a fundraising walk for Ukraine on Waiheke Island.
Former All Blacks coach Sir Graham Henry and seven other men frequently meet for strolls and pilates anyway - and now they’re doing it for a good cause.
More than NZ$50,000 has been raised so far to go towards purchasing a truck to help with humanitarian efforts in war-torn Ukraine.
Sir Graham Henry told Tova O'Brien after speaking to Tenby Powell, the founder of Kiwi K.A.R.E (Kiwi Aid & Refugee Evacuation), they decided to come together and offer their support for those on the front line in Ukraine.
"He suggested our best way to assist is to buy a truck, fill it with medical products and get it to the front line," Sir Graham said.
He told O'Brien the Waiheke community has offered fantastic support for their cause, financially and otherwise.
"It's a big awareness thing, a lot of people are more aware of the problems.
"We've had a lot of contact with the three schools over there, they are doing poster competitions and a community walk."
Sir Graham said events like Cyclone Gabrielle and the war in Ukraine highlight the courageous people who are able to push through struggle and remain resilient, something he believes is 'just part of living'.
"We are going to go through difficult times and we are just going to have to handle it and build resilience."
Those wanting to donate to the cause can do so at their Give-a-little page.
Sir Graham told O'Brien the noise around the All Blacks coaching decision is bad for rugby and the All Blacks organisation and said he would not be adding to it with any of his own opinions.
Listen to the full interview between former All Blacks coach Sir Graham Henry and Tova above.
You can also download the full interview on the Tova podcast, and listen on the go. Download the rova app on apple or android to listen to this podcast on the go, or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
