On March 1, 2025, after a short illness, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family. Loved wife of the late Peter, dearly loved mother and mother-in-law of Julia and Jeremy (Jack), and Andrea. Cherished Grandma of Joshua, Chloe; Chelsey, Tim, and Aurora, adored Gigi of Elias, Bennett, Amaya (acute accent over the last a). Cherished partner of Rex. Sincere thanks to the Community Palliative Care team, Pegasus Medical Centre, and to St John Ambulance for their compassionate care of Rita. In lieu of flowers, donations to  St John Ambulance or to the Cancer Society would be appreciated and may be made online at cancer.org.nz or stjohn.org.nz. In accordance with Rita’s wishes, a private service will be held.