Foxton Beach residents are mourning the loss of a woman described as incredibly generous and loving after a house fire claimed the lives of an elderly couple on December 9.
A Community Remembers fiona Cameron’s kindness
The 79-year-old’s family recalls her open-door policy and unwavering compassion for others.
- Fiona Cameron, 79, and Thomas Muliaga died in a fire at their Foxton Beach home.
- family members describe Cameron as exceptionally kind and welcoming, always willing to help those in need.
- The fire is believed to have started in the kitchen, though an official report has not yet been released.
- A service was held for Muliaga on December 15, while Cameron’s ashes will be scattered at Lake Taupō.
“She wasn’t living very well, she was on the bones of her arse and then Tomi took her in and started feeding her, she put on a whole heap of weight and just looked absolutely amazing,” said Hayley Perkins, Cameron’s daughter, recalling how her mother’s life improved after connecting with Muliaga.
Q: what was Fiona Cameron known for in her community?
A: Fiona Cameron was widely known for her extraordinary generosity and caring nature.
The couple’s home was destroyed in the blaze, which emergency services were called to at approximately 3:00 am. Despite their best efforts, both Cameron and Muliaga were pronounced dead at the scene.
“The outpouring of support from the community has been overwhelming,” Marsh said,adding that the family is deeply grateful for the compassion,assistance and professionalism during this incredibly tragic time for our family,” Marsh said.
Officials indicated the fire likely started on the kitchen stove,but no official report has been released as of December 23,2025 09:00:00. Muliaga was farewelled at a service at Palmerston North’s Beauchamp Chapel on December 15. Cameron’s ashes will be scattered at Lake Taupō near her favorite tree in the new year.
