In the bustling community of east Auckland, Jimmy Ruka is a familiar face.
Known widely not just for his unwavering support for the local rugby club but also for the melodic strains of guitar music and his majestic singing voice that seems to follow him wherever he goes and now he’s giving back to those in need in our community!
How long have you lived in east Auckland?
It would be over 30+ years now, predominantly in Howick/Pakuranga.
Knowing your love of rugby, who did you play for throughout your career?
There’s been four clubs in my whole life, history of over 60 years with rugby – starting at Maungaturoto Rugby Club, moving to Levin, where I played in the prem team, then moving to Kaikohe Rugby Club and ending up with Eden Rugby Club in Auckland. After that, I moved to Pakuranga and became heavily involved with Pakuranga United Rugby Club, with roles such as team manager of the junior boys team, manager of the Premiers team, various committee roles and running the supporters’ club which involved a lot of charitable work with partners such as the heart foundation and cancer society!
What’s your most memorable rugby game to date?
Definitely hands down watching our Premiers team winning the Gallagher Shield. We beat University playing at Eden Park. I was feeling unwell that day, but still managed to celebrate with the team!
What career or profession have you pursued most of your life?
My whole working life was with National Bank. I was the second Maori bank manager in New Zealand. That is a proud achievement.
Tell us about the charitable work you’re involved with?
I work with local church groups and businesses helping feed local homeless, also families/pensioners/solo mums in need. I’m currently helping around 190 people every week.
What’s most rewarding about doing this work?
Helping people who are too embarrassed to ask for help. Also seeing the children smiling and happy when I leave and knowing I’m able to help them eat well for a week. Lastly, I love that once they are on their feet, the most rewarding thing is them asking how they can now help others.
Who do you see as needing the most help in our community?
Mainly families, they are very grateful for the support.
How can the community get involved and help with your project?
All they have to do is give me a call. I’m open to any support, and donations for our community! (To contact Jimmy send an email to info@times.co.nz).
What would you say to the 10-year-old Jimmy now?
I don’t know, I have to think about that … I think maybe to always listen and look after your community and whanau – it’s important, and very rewarding.
What’s been the best day or highlight this year?
I know exactly, it was six months ago, a man pulls up outside my place. It was one of my clients I help. He comes out and shakes my hand and thanked me and gave me a huge box of cupcakes. He said thank you for helping them, now they’re back on their feet and have jobs. They were so grateful for my help. This really made my day! I was actually quite overwhelmed. I nearly cried!
What’s the number-one item on your bucket list?
Travel right through New Zealand and take note of all the sportspeople and visit them all and spend some quality time with them! I just want to shake their hands personally and thank them for their sporting contributions.
Where’s your favourite place to visit in east Auckland?
The rugby club. It’s where everything happens for me. I think I’m there about three times a week now. It’s a multicultural, safe and involved community. I have made so many solid friends over the years and learnt a lot.
And lastly, what’s your favourite song to play on the guitar?
I do love Lady Gaga’s Shallow. But I think overall, Elvis Presley is my main man – good times!
