It goes without saying that it's been a tough year for Christchurch and the wider Canterbury region.
February 22's devastating earthquake flattened much of the city and left a permanent scar on this nation's psyche.
But, often, some good eventually comes out of tragedy, and while in the case ofthe Canterbury earthquakes it may still be pretty difficult to find that positive slant, it's great to see Wanganui residents doing their bit to help out those living down south. In the immediate wake of February's earthquake, there was no shortage of offers to help, just as after the first major tremor in September last year.
But last week things took another step forward when a group of 60 Cantabrians arrived in Wanganui for a week-long break, organised by local woman Lyn Boyle and her Caversham Park committee.
While here, the Cantabs will stay with host families, take a trip on the PS Waimarie, visit Jerusalem and tour Bushy Park, Mowhanau Beach and Bason Reserve. Those inclined to swing a club will also have the chance for a round of golf. On their arrival in Wanganui, the visitors were presented with hand-knitted red and black scarves and bags of gifts.
What a wonderful gesture by Mrs Boyle, her team, and all the other local people and organisations behind this idea. The break has the potential to make a real difference to those people whose lives have been so brutally turned upside-down.
It's also a reminder that, even as the country is gripped with World Cup fever, there are some things in life more important than rugby.
We see and read a lot about the negative side of human nature - the recent London riots and the terrorist attacks on the United States 10 years ago are haunting reminders of this.
But the actions of people like Mrs Boyle and everyone else involved in organising the Cantabrians' visit to Wanganui do much to balance the equation, and remind us that most people are inherently good.
To Mrs Boyle and her team: take a bow - you've most certainly earned it.
