Hugh Graham, who is among the Cook Islanders stranded in New Zealand due to the Covid-19 community cases in Auckland, received a major surprise on Father’s Day morning

“A1 Meitaki surprise to wake up to this special breakfast (pictured right) of fresh fruit and yoghurt, full cooked breakfast and a bottle of wine,” said the president of the Cook Islands Sports and National Olympic Committee.

Graham, who has set up base at an airport hotel in Auckland as he waits for the repatriation flight to the Cook Islands, thanked his son Kahlimn in Perth, Australia on behalf of all his children for this surprise.

“Unfortunately, could not enjoy with the family due to being stuck here in Auckland under alert 4 lockdown, has been very challenging at times being lonely but have to keep praying and trust in our government that we will be home soon.”

Prime Minister Mark Brown earlier said the managed return of stranded Cook Islanders in New Zealand will begin when Auckland moves to Alert Level 3. This after Cabinet decided to extend the restriction on inward travels from New Zealand until at least September 13.

Auckland will stay into level 4 until 11.59pm next Tuesday, 14 September (NZ time).

Graham said: “We must keep Delta out of the Cook Islands … totally support our government’s stance on this but can’t wait to come home. This is by far the longest trip away from Raro on behalf of CISNOC.”

Graham was among 13 athletes and officials who spent two weeks in an MIQ facility in Christchurch last month after flying back from Tokyo Games. The nine Rarotonga-based officials and athletes were supposed to return home last week.

Meanwhile at the Mooring Fish Cafe, a big group headed out for lunch to celebrate the occasion.

Celebrating with their parents were Milan Street, 4, Tearoa Tuarae-White, 7, Hudson Street, 7, Ryan Street, 9, Alisha Street, Tara Tuarae-White, Walter Tuarae-White, David Street, Haylie Browne, Tamaiva Browne, 9, Leilani Browne, 6.

“We like to celebrate our dads and all the work they do for us,” the children said.