Twenty-one-year-old Brook Robertson has been named in the Kiwi team for the Games but travel to Brazil proved to be prohibitively expensive for his parents, Lynn Petrie and Wayne Robertson.

Mr Robertson suffered a forestry accident in 2013 which left him unable to work, but Volkswagen NZ, a long-time partner of NZOC, have stepped in to assist.

They surprised the family as the rower trained at Lake Karapiro and announced that they had purchased an Olympic travel package for them.

Now, Lynn and Brook's brother Balin will travel to Rio.

“Every time Brook’s won a medal, he’s put it around my neck and kissed the top of my head," said Lynn.

"I’m looking forward to being there for him to be able to put a medal around my neck after they win at Rio."

Robertson was part of the men's eight crew which finished fourth at the World Rowing Championships in Aiguebelette in France in September.

Tom Ruddenklau, Volkswagen NZ's general manager, added: "We’re well aware an athlete’s family is often their biggest supporter, from cheering at the sidelines, to the financial support over many years.

"Brook’s family deserve to see him compete at Rio and we know having his family there in person will mean a great deal to him.”