Willy and Charlotte TUKAKI

William, known as "Willy" son of Tawhiao and Te Puhatoto Tukaki. 2nd born of 13 Sibling’s. Born and raised in Tauranga.

Charlotte the 4th born of 9 children of Daniel Kereti Rolleston and Gloria Hinemanuhiri Bartlett.

He often reminisced about his childhood memories like stopping to warm their feet in fresh cow patches on their cold morning hikoi to school, riding the tractor on Matakana and racing down on the flying fox at Ranginui Road that Granddad built.

Like all good love stories, theirs started at the local dairy. His eyes locked on this beautiful young girl. What caught his attention was the hot pants and long boots.

He worked up the courage to walk up and ask “can I buy you an ice cream?” …

Her response was “No”, but as the story unfolded the ice cream melted her heart.

They were married on 19 July 1969 at the Holy Trinity Church Tauranga, dad was 20 and mum was 18.

Mum was the……..

Moving from Tauranga to Taupo in the late 60’s they decided to call Taupo home. There the raised their 4 children.

Often working multiple jobs to support his young family.

An opportunity presented itself which he grabbed with both hands. With time, dedication and hard work Tukaki Logging was formed. He saw his crew not only as workers, but whanau. His work led him to Rangiwaea for his final logging contract. On this slice of paradise, not only did they find happiness but a community that welcomed them with open arms.

His work ethics, values and morals will forever shine through his moko’s.

They were also staunch Taupo United Members and involved with Rugby and Netball.

Mum and dad we thank you for loving us and creating our Childhood memories that will last a lifetime.

Our whanau trips, camping adventures and gathering’s we will cherish.

We will remind the moko mokos how much you loved them and share stories.

We will carry you within us in everything we do, you are a million different memories, a million silent tears, a million sounds of laughter we collected through the years.

So, while we cannot see you or share with you a hug you will always live forever in our hearts.