Michael & Peter cruise the Bay of Islands
Michael and Peter had a wonderful Easter this year, on a cruise in the Bay of Islands with Levanne and Jackie as their support crew. When Peter and Michael set themselves the goal of undertaking a cruise, Jackie and Levanne, experienced ConneXu Community Facilitators, readily agreed to accompany them. But before they were even on board, they had a tricky obstacle to navigate. As Peter had no passport, birth certificate or formal ID, simply getting aboard proved to be the major problem that nearly quashed their holiday before it began, even despite the cruise being in the Bay of Islands. However, after some anxious moments, permission was granted, and the group was soon up the gangway and being shown to their cabins.
The cruise started from Auckland, but then headed out to the Tasman Sea for Good Friday. Unfortunately, the seas out there were extremely rough and Levanne suffered badly from seasickness.
Peter, Michael and Jackie were untroubled by the sensation of the sea moving beneath their feet, and had the time of their lives throughout the entire cruise.
Being somewhat restricted in movement did not hinder Peter and Michael’s enjoyment of the cruise. They took pleasure in being part of a happy holiday crowd – the cruise was the perfect opportunity to sit and absorb the atmosphere – people, laughter and seascapes.
The entertainment was fabulous: music, parties and shows sparkling with colour and fun; everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves. The group especially appreciated the excellent service offered by the staff. Their porter and waiter were carefully attentive throughout the cruise, giving them a wonderful four days at sea. The meals were delicious, and the other guests entered into the party spirit of the occasion, drawing everyone into the fun. They were particularly charmed by Peter’s elegant courtesy, tipping his hat to those who stopped to chat.
Levanne said the cruise was a very happy time for Michael and Peter, who had long looked forward to the cruise that proved to be even better than they could have hoped. The two men have been close friends and flatmates for many years. Peter, with no family of his own, has been taken into the hearts of Michael’s family, who provide natural support for both men. Jackie and Levanne also know them well, and have supported Michael and Peter in their roles as Community Facilitators for some time now.
Although Levanne missed her family of eight children, she says she’ll treasure her memories of this special trip forever. Jackie and Levanne understood how important the cruise was for Michael and Peter and put their hearts into a successful team effort. And it was a team effort. So that they were able to focus on supporting the men, the wider ConneXu team were behind them; taking care of the planning, preparation and details, and also pivotal in making it happen. Arthur, a Community Facilitator, was a strong advocate for the cruise and provided vital support. Similarly, Sarah Hobden, Quality Practice Leader, made sure that all the management details were taken care of, such as; health and safety assurance, tickets and travel details, insurances, etc.
“I feel lucky to be working for an organisation which is utterly focused on enabling good lives for the people we support, and sets in place the best resources for our teams to achieve these goals.”