Karen was part of my work family (one of Jeffs 'work wives'). Even though we wouldnt catchup for a few months, when we did, we'd carry on as if it had only been a few days. I learnt many things from Karen... from learning its really important to worm your lamb before the school Ag day (crikey) through to knowing its ok to have big hair... just embrace it! Karen was always so encouraging, so motivating, your biggest cheerleader. I organise the ex Telstraclear drink catchups (Karen and the other PMs, were expert delegators!!) and always had to make sure the drinks weren't on Wed...a sailing night. Else we sure as heck wouldnt see her, and I loved the fact she had such a passion for being out on the water (and drinking the rum I'm sure!). With us spending so much time at work together, we got to know each others kids well (without even meeting them) cause thats what Mums do, we talk about our kids. And that was clearly her other passion... Jamie, Georgia and Ella. I was in awe how she put in 110% into being a Mum, so inspiring. Our last chat was about me looking to buy a house close to her home. As ever, she was helpful beyond belief with info I needed to know on how to live rurally ... I dont think she quite convinced me to get chickens tho! But if I do, I'm gonna get one of those fluffy hair ones to remind me of this awesome woman. She will be hugely missed and will be forever grateful for her friendship.

Karen Reid was not just a remarkable colleague, but a true friend to all of us. Her dedication, sense of humor, and kindness made the workplace a better place. We’ll miss her laughter, her wisdom, and the way she always had time to lend a hand. Karen's spirit and friendship will always be remembered. Rest in peace, Karen.

Our condolences Greg and family. We will remember Karen as a positive and full of energy friend. When I read back your last posts there were lots of plans (as always I assume…) for travels and sailing now the parenting thing was completed. Much too young Karen… with so many plans. Our thoughts are with you Greg and family. Thanks for letting us know about Karens passing and sending the link to the service and photos. Erik and Nicole

Our utmost condolences to you, Greg and your family on Karen’s sudden passing. My mom and dad, Faith and Bill Cummins were her first host family when she came to Kearny, AZ for her high school program. I had graduated 2 years before and was living in Tucson, AZ. Mom and Karen formed a close bond that lasted to this day, and mom also stayed in touch with her parents. I remember fondly going tubing down the Gila River, taking Karen to a Police concert in Phoenix, and having her and several college friends stay at my apartment in Orange County, California for several days on their way to the UK. She was always a ray of sunshine and I am in total awe of all that she accomplished in her life. Her light and spirit will truly live on with you and the kids. She will also continue to have a positive impact on me and my life when I remember her. Beth, Faith and Bill Cummins

Karen you were larger than life and could light up any room you went into. So many fond memories over the years of such a beautiful person, inside and out, who had so much life left to live. “Fair winds and following seas Karen.” To Greg, the kids, and all of your families, big hugs from the Freese’s in Oz. “Do not stand at my grave and weep. I am not there I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow; I am the diamond glints on snow; I am the sunlight on ripened grain; I am the gentle autumn rain. When you awaken in the morning hush I am the quick uplifting rush Of quiet birds in circling flight. I am the soft star that shines at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry. I am not there, I did not die.” Mary Frye 1932

My condolences to you Greg and family. I was looking back at the messages on messenger and seen that in 2009 Karen found me on Facebook. I believe at that time 2 of her kids had chicken pox. Karen was one of my best friends. My father had got me a lime green Ford Pinto with a sun roof. I remember he let me take Karen and another exchange student from Peru named Sylvia Pena to a band day out of town. We were listening to air supply. So many memories Thank you for letting us know of her passing and allow us to view the service. May she R.I.P.

Few people have the zest for life, smiley can-do attitude and love of the outdoors that Karen had. She was the best organiser, an Ag Day professional mum, and a joy to have at your side when you were coaching netball teams! Her love for her family knew no bounds, but she was always generous of spirit and quick with a smile for those she barely knew. Our family would like to offer our deepest condolences to Greg, Georgia, Ella, and Jamie as you farewell your beautiful wife and mum. xx Karen and Jason Rutherford, Ella, Abby and Lachie (formerly of Dairy Flat)

Karen was a wonderful person who we have had the pleasure to know for the past 28 years. There were so many good times sailing and more than a few memorable parties. Karen had an innate ability to bring people together and to make sure that everyone was made to feel welcome. We'll remember her smile and positive energy, as well as her oft spouted sailing mantra, 'Height is God given'. It's been wonderful to see her build a family and a life with Greg over the years we have known her. Our love and thoughts are with her family. Love from Andrew and Juliet.

Karen was more than a friend; she was family. Her wild spirit and warm heart touched everyone around her. Karen lived life to the fullest. She had an incredible gift of making you feel at home wherever you were. Being an au pair, I could have been the girl from abroad, but she made me part of her family. Our trip to Tonga together was a dream come true, creating memories I will cherish forever. Though she left us too soon, her memory will forever remain in our hearts. Our hearts go out to Greg, Jamie, Georgia and Ella and all her family and friends. We love you, Karen. You will be deeply missed.

Karen has been a wonderful friend and yachting legend. Always a starter for everything. From her dedication to the Scouts, to hitting the mountain trails at the drop of a hat and sailing every Wednesday evening in the summer (plus winter racing too). We will be forever grateful for being able to share many years of Karen’s hospitality and friendship. Thank you Greg for your generosity of sharing Karen with us, encouraging her at every chance to go sailing with the Legless/Savante crew and maybe a few rums too. Love - Dave & Ange

A shooting star who touched so many people’s lives. Karen has a special place in all our hearts. She will be sadly missed by all her UK family.

Our deepest sympathy to Greg, James, Georgia, Ella, also Colin, Derek and Debra, in the loss of your much loved, and loving, Karen. Karen was such a beautiful, vivacious and engaging personality with eyes and a smile that would light up the world. It is such a shock that she has been taken far too soon. She still had much life to live, adventures to have and family milestones to share. We are sorry that we are unable to attend Karen's farewell as we will be en-route to Australia. But we have, and will be thinking of you with great sadness. Elizabeth, Grahame Bingham and family

Sending our love and thoughts to Greg, Jamie, Georgia and Ella. Karen and I were just talking on Friday about Jamie and Jacob. Karen was a force of fabulous nature alright.

Many a happy hour side by side racing up and down the Waitemata and afterwards sharing a slice of pie, a bag of chips and a couple of rums. None of which will feel the same without your kind and sparkling spirit with us. Miss you always. You are one of the good ones!

Karen, we will miss your smiling face and sincere positivity. You gave so much to everyone and we are so sorry to lose you so young. Thank you for your kindness and laughter. Sending our love and thoughts to Greg, Jamie, Georgia , Ella, Uncle Colin, Derek and Deborah.