Napier boys stop handbag thief and make a family's Christmas

Hawke's Bay Today News Editor James Ford. PHOTO / File.

This time of year is always important. Catching up with family and friends while over indulging in delicious treats followed by a cheeky tipple - it's why we look forward to it so much.

But, in the news game, tales of generosity and kindness are also accompanied by negative and upsetting stories, It's the nature of the beast.

From Christmas Day thefts to a rising holiday road toll – it's always a challenge to cover those stories, particularly at this time of year.

That's why the news of young cousins Shamus Paramore, 12, and Zahn Te Ngaru-Mewburn, 17, was so endearing. The two boys stopped a group of thieves at a local bike park.

Shamus saw three boys, aged around 13 to 16 years old, suspiciously rifling through a handbag before running off, when he decided to take action.

After catching the perpetrator he became violent, Zahn spotted the scuffle and went to his cousin's aid.

Once they had retrieved the phone the young heroes called the police. The owner of the phone, Kelly Woolston, was on holiday in Napier with her three children and husband when the incident happened.

What was even more commendable was Zahn offering his last $5 to compensate for the money stolen from the handbag.

What could have been a horrible lasting memory that portrayed Napier in a negative light was instead given a positive spin by two courageous young people.

Of course, we must always first think of our safety in circumstances like the one Shamus and Zahn found themselves in.

But at a time in which young people are often criticised, we must also commend their achievements, especially in the face of adversity. Good on you, boys, you should be proud of yourselves.