Sorrow at Rotorua church bike theft turns to joy

By CathNews New Zealand

August 21st, 2026

A donated bike in Rotorua (St Mary of the Cross MacKillop Rotorua/Facebook)

The sorrow of a couple who had just arrived in New Zealand over the theft of their bicycle from outside a Rotorua church turned to joy after parishioners generously provided replacement bikes the next day.

The theft of the bicycle from St Mary’s Church in Rotorua was captured in photos by the parish and were posted to Facebook on August 18. The St Mary of the Cross MacKillop Rotorua Facebook post stated that a young Sri Lankan couple who arrived in New Zealand a fortnight previously came the church to pray.

“Sadly, while they were inside the church, their bicycle was stolen. It is heartbreaking, especially for someone who has only recently arrived in our community,” the post said.

But after the parish was alerted to the theft and an appeal was made for donation of a replacement bike, the sorrow was turned to joy.

“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who came together to support the Sri Lankan couple who lost their bike at St Mary’s Church yesterday,” a Facebook update stated.

“We are so grateful that one of our parishioners has generously donated a bike to them, and another kind parishioner is donating a ladies’ bike for his wife.

“This is the beauty of community – when someone is in need, we stand together. Thank you for showing such wonderful kindness and generosity. God bless you all!”

FULL STORY

Facebook (St Mary of the Cross MacKillop Rotorua)

Thank you (St Mary of the Cross MacKillop Rotorua/Facebook)