A Northland mother of two has been overwhelmed by the generosity of strangers after most of her belongings were destroyed in a house fire.
Paula Hegh said since her rented home in Nixon St was destroyed along with most of her possessions last month she had struggled through a tough time.
A burning log falling from her fire ignited the carpet and fire spread rapidly through the front lounge area and into the roof of the the old kauri villa. But what gave her hope and helped her get back on her feet again was the kindness of strangers.
"It's really overwhelming to have a complete stranger hand over stuff and hug you," Ms Hegh said.
"People have been so generous. It's been very emotional. It's been a very strange time but we are moving forward."