I met Eija only days after her husband Peter had passed away. I had been asked to call on her and pay respects on behalf of the Body Corporate, but what could have been an awkward, formal visit between strangers instead became the beginning of a friendship that lasted a full decade.

Within minutes she warmed to me, offering tea and sharing stories of her childhood in Finland, her years in Tasmania, and her deep love of Te Anau. In the years that followed I visited her often, bringing yarn, low‑carb diabetic‑friendly high teas, and keeping her supplied with the Nordic knit slippers she loved so much.

We shared many Christmases together when she and I were the only ones left at the complex, creating a small makeshift holiday family of three — Eija, myself, and Tiger the cat. I feel privileged to have been so well accepted by both Eija and Tiger, that marvelous feline with whom I share a special bond. I dearly hope he found a caring new home. In short order he learned several “tricks” usually reserved for dogs — most memorably, how to give a friendly high five. All it takes is an outstretched hand and a cheerful “Hey, give me five,” and he’ll happily oblige. If possible, I would love to see him again.

The photo I’ve shared shows Eija with a past caretaker at one of our tea parties — this one celebrating the end of the COVID lockdowns.

I am grateful for ten years of friendship, laughter, stories, and memories. They will stay with me for the rest of my life.

Eija was special and unique with a wicked sense of humour,dogged determination and a gifted crafter.She was always grateful for everything people did for her and loved her peace,own home and Tiger for company.We in the community all miss her and send sincere sympathy to all the family.Her last years were happy and sad her death happened so quickly.I have many great memories of the probably 15 years or more I knew her

As an owner occupant at our complex for more than two decades, Eija was known to many. She often commented that she and husband Peter chose Te Anau as their home because it reminded her both of her native Finland and time spent living in Tasmania. She enjoyed regular visitors as well as her quiet time knitting, crocheting, and active with her impressive collection of puzzle books. She will be greatly missed.