‘It hurts’
Superette owner to sell business after latest robbery
We work 14 hours per day, seven days per week to keep our doors open, and then this happens John Bulsara
In all his years in business - both in Fiji and New Zealand - Monday was the worst day for John Bulsara, enough to convince him it is time to sell his business. A family member opened the doors of Westend Superette at 7am as usual.
About half-an-hour later a group of youths stormed the front door, leapt the counter and pulled racks of cigarettes from the tobacco cupboard.
They left as fast as they entered, loading the stolen goods into the boot of a black wagon, but not before members of the public stepped in and took some of the items back.
As the offenders made their getaway, not bothering to close the tailgate, an approaching cattle truck driver attempted to block their path.
But they eluded him, scattering more stolen goods onto the road.
The store was closed on Monday as police conducted a forensic examination before the Bulsara family could tidy up for re-opening on Tuesday.
Bulsara says it saddens him that criminals can treat him, his family and his business like that.
“I came to New Zealand 21 years ago and have dedicated myself to being of service to my new community,” he says.
“Not once have I left New Zealand in that time, not even to visit the country of my birth.
“We work 14 hours per day, seven days per week to keep our doors open, and then this happens.
“We were welcomed with open arms, but because of this event, I have decided to put Westend Superette on the market.
“It hurts.”
Bulsara doesn’t blame the Te Awamutu community for the incident - he says it must be outsiders.
His reasoning is that in the short time the robbery was occurring, Te Awamutu came to his aid.
And that sign of goodwill has been extended through visits, messages of sympathy and flowers.
“I have learnt that we are loved and respected by this community,” Bulsara says.
“That support is paying us back for our hard work and commitment.”
The family acknowledge Te Awamutu police for all their professionalism and support, plus staff from Fonterra, Stewart & Cavalier, Trade Zone, ZB Homes, Road Haulage, MOVe Freight and community members who stepped up during the robbery or have offered their support.