"My parents tried really hard and we had a house and we had food and we had clothing and those are the important things. We didn't have too much at Christmas but we got taught to be grateful."
She asked around to see if something like the scheme existed in Whangarei, but when it didn't she took on the job of creating it.
The Warehouse Whangarei gave her over 100 shoeboxes last week.
She put a message on Facebook explaining what she doing and said the response has been crazy.
People can collect a box (or many) from her, fill it up with age appropriate items and return it. Alternatively, people can supply their own boxes.
"I know that children look forward to Christmas time, and to unwrap gifts like that will be awesome."
Mrs Mako said the boxes can be for a boy or girl aged between two and 17.
For those who want to help but don't have a lot of money, she said they can donate items or money and Mrs Mako will use them to fill boxes.
She said even a dollar would be appreciated. Mrs Mako said simple things like stickers and bubbles will make children really happy.
She did two boxes up as examples, and has had two boxes delivered by a family already.
"With the number of people putting their hand up to do a box, I think we're going to need more."
She has heard from individuals, families, workplaces and staff at schools. Along with the keen interest to fill boxes, Rickylee McElwain has jumped on board to help her out with the organising.
There are 34 boxes out with various people and groups and another long list of people who are due to collect a box from Mrs Mako.
Mrs Mako has spoken with social services groups Feed a Family Northland, Ngati Hine, Ngapuhi Iwi Social Services, One Double Five Community House and had a meeting with Women's Refuge. She is also hoping to connect with services further north.
The groups will identify children who will receive a box.
She has set a deadline for all donations to be in by December 10 and wants to give them out as close to Christmas Day as possible.
To get involved, contact Rangimarie Mako on Facebook, or email christmasinashoeboxwhangarei@outlook.co.nz.
-Northern Advocate