22/09/2026
In Loving Memory of Annette Lole Karepa – Pacific Homecare Trustee.
It is with profound sadness that the Board of Trustees, Management, and Staff of Pacific Homecare acknowledge the passing of our esteemed Trustee, Annette Lole Karepa, who passed away on 16 September 2026 at the age of 76.
Annette joined the Pacific Homecare Trust Board in January 2017 and served our organisation with distinction, wisdom, and unwavering commitment. During her tenure as a Trustee, she provided thoughtful governance, strategic insight, and passionate advocacy for Pacific communities, helping to guide Pacific Homecare through a period of significant growth and transformation.
She brought extensive experience in education, public policy, governance, community development, and Pacific leadership, earning the respect and admiration of all who had the privilege of working alongside her.
Throughout her life, Annette devoted herself to strengthening Pacific communities across Aotearoa New Zealand. Her contribution extended far beyond the boardroom, touching the lives of countless individuals, organisations, and families through her wisdom, generosity, and commitment to service. She was a respected leader, mentor, advocate, and friend whose influence will continue to be felt for many years to come.
More than her many professional accomplishments, Annette will be remembered for her warmth, humility, compassion, and quiet strength. She possessed a rare ability to bring calmness and perspective to any situation and was always willing to share her wisdom and encouragement with others.
A Personal Reflection from Hamish Crooks, Chief Executive Officer:
I first met Annette almost thirty years ago through our shared involvement in Pasifika communities throughout Aotearoa New Zealand. Over those years, I came to know her not only as a respected leader but also as a trusted colleague and dear friend.
Annette was always that calm and supportive rock you could lean on and draw strength from. She carried a wisdom shaped by her life's journey, her resilience, and her unwavering commitment to serving others. Whenever challenges arose, Annette brought perspective, reassurance, and thoughtful counsel. Her presence was steady, her guidance generous, and her integrity beyond question.
Annette had a remarkable ability to make people feel valued and heard. She never sought recognition for herself, yet her contribution to others' lives was immense. Her leadership was characterised by humility, grace, and a genuine desire to uplift those around her.
When I think of Annette, the words of Philippians 1:3 immediately come to mind:
"I thank my God every time I remember you."
For me, those words perfectly capture the gratitude I feel for having known Annette and for the privilege of serving alongside her. I will forever be thankful for her friendship, her wisdom, and the many conversations we shared over the years.
While we mourn her passing, we also celebrate a life that was lived with purpose, faith, compassion, and service. Annette's legacy lives on through the many people she mentored, the communities she strengthened, and the organisations she helped lead.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, Management Team, Staff, and the wider Pacific Homecare whānau, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Annette's family, to Ned, all of her children and mokopuna, her friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives she touched.
May they find comfort in the love she shared, the lives she enriched, and the lasting legacy she leaves behind.
Moe mai rā, Annette ❤
