We had the pleasure of being Don and Doris' neighbors during a locum at TDHB in 2009. We enjoyed them immensely and visited them each time we were back in NZ. Such great folks. I loved his stories and his non PC attitude. The world would be a better place if they followed Don's attitudes. I regret that I never partook of his invitation to join him and his mates at the pub. A truly great guy...

Just watched the service video for Don - brings back so many memories both private with Don and in Police for so many years. I was not able to travel to attend but service video very clear - Don highly respected guy all round and remained friends with me until now. Always liked to chat with him. Will miss his visits so much. Cheers ..Lorne Fell

Tony,Geoff,Wayne and families sorry we couldn’t make it down.Heartfelt condolences to you all on the loss of a great man, I have reflected on many great memories since hearing of Dons passing but watched the service online what a fantastic send off you did your dad proud!! The Mcneil family

We too have been sharing stories .... and memories of visits together over the years. Always loved the stories & antics of the Corbett’s.... forever love dearly love Granny Corbet who brought us all together :) Dad has shared stories of Don & Doris’ antics on my parents wedding day/ at the wedding breakfasts & decorating the rental car up for the bridal couple ???????? We love you all and will join in with you today via funeral service link. Much love Tony, Jeff , Wayne & families from the Vennik’s, Teun, Vera & Sonja

Uncle Don I am going to miss you and the great sense of fun that was shared in your (and Dolly's) company. You were my most politically incorrect uncle and the most entertaining and fun to be around.(never a dull moment) You always made us so welcome in your home and I always looked forward to seeing you and Dolly whenever we could meet up. You have left many memories with us all. Like many others, we have shared lots of stories involving Don and the Corbetts this week. Our thoughts are with you all tomorrow as you farewell a man who has left his mark on us all! Much love to you all. Heather, Brian, Jimmy, Don & Kerri-Ann Sinclair. Te Anau

Just wanted to share a few memories of our friendship with Don I met Don just before Hazel and I got married in 1962. Don and Dolly opened their home up to us and that was the start of what was to a life long friendship. One very memorable time was when Don took me for a trip 'around the mountain' which involved stopping at 30+ hotels along the way. To this day I have no recollection of getting home! This is only one of many stories I could tell you. Nearly every year without fail. Whether is was with kids or without. Dolly and Don made the pilgrimage south to holiday and catchup with family. (often there was a hitchhiker story involved too) There were many trips to the Haast and over the Nevis. On occasion’s during the winter, the carbortator would freeze up on the Humber 80 on some of the high passes and we had to wait for it to thaw. Often there was a pub in close proximity. We have great memories of times spent with Don Dolly and the family. They were great friends and we miss them both dearly. Our thoughts are with you all. So glad we got to say goodbye and catch up with kids. Sorry we won't be able to make it back to New Plymouth Vin and Hazel de Bettencor

Our heartfelt sympathy to you all, A great kauri has fallen that no seedling can replace. Lionel & Rell Stevens Wellington

Our heartfelt sympathy to you all, A great kauri has fallen no seedling could replace, Lionel & Rell Stevens

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time. Don was a great friend, colleague and exceptional human being who we will greatly miss. As we are currently in the South Island we will be unable to be at his service, but we will be with you in spirit. RIP Don.

Sorry we won’t make it to the funeral, Love to everyone, I hope he has the most inappropriate send off that he was looking for, Let the tears of laughter flow ???????????? We will be watching via the website, thanks for making that available ????

My condolences to the Corbett family, Don was a great guy and will be sadly missed in his community.