April 2016 - Don Borrie

We were so sad to hear of the death of Reverend Don Borrie (Don) on 21 April 2016. Don became a trustee of Wellington Housing Trust in 2003 and this continued for an impressive 10 years until he stood down as a Dwell trustee in 2013. Through the Advance Pacific Housing Group we continued to work with Don on housing issues in Eastern Porirua almost up to his death.

Many of the Dwell team were glad to be able to attend Don's funeral.

Don did so much for his community and for the country over his lifetime. He was a Porirua city councillor, a member of the hospital Board, founder and longtime chair of the North Korea/New Zealand friendship organisation to name a few roles. Don was a man steadfast in his beliefs, passionate and ahead of his time in many ways.

Dwell Chair, Paul Scholey, had this to say, "Don was a staunch advocate for accessible and affordable housing, and a great supporter of community housing, WHT and Dwell. It was a privilege to know him and serve alongside him on the board. Condolences to his family and many friends, particularly in Porirua and Titahi Bay where his loss will be especially keenly felt."

As well as a trustee, colleague, supporter and champion of affordable quality housing, Don was a friend and we will miss him.

Arohanui Kua hinga te totara i te wao nui a Tane
The totara has fallen in the forest of Tane

Don (top left) with other WHT trustees in 2006