Astrid Armstrong,

heartbroken
but hopeful Whakatāne resident

What makes a life important? Is it being human? Or does the life of an animal – a companion, a family member – matter just as much?

I’ve been left heartbroken after losing my 16-month-old cat to a hit and run on James Street.

A bump to the head – that’s all it took – and her little life was gone. She wasn’t “just a cat”. She was my companion, part of my family, loved beyond words.

The most devastating part is not just that she died, but that someone drove off as if her life didn’t matter at all. What if it had been a child? Would that make people care more? Does a life only deserve respect if it walks on two legs?

Thankfully, amidst the sadness, there was a small act of kindness that meant the world. A caring neighbour took the time to gently move my beautiful girl from the road and place her in a box with dignity. To that person – I can’t thank you enough for your compassion. In that awful moment, you showed that some people still care.

But this isn’t just about my cat – it’s about safety. James Street has become a speedway. I don’t need a radar gun to see cars flying past at 60 or 70kmh in a 50kmh zone. It terrifies me, especially knowing how many school children walk this route every day. It shouldn’t take losing a pet – or worse, a child – for people to slow down and think.

I’m asking the community, and those behind the wheel: Please – respect life. All life. Drive with care. You never know who’s crossing the road – a child, a beloved pet, someone’s whole world.