An east Auckland school’s energetic young pupils can now play outdoors in rain, hail or shine.
Pakuranga Heights School unveiled its new sunshade, and a new sandpit, at a ceremony on August 13.
The $500,000 sunshade was constructed due to the fundraising efforts of the school’s board and parent-teacher association (PTA).
Principal Fintan Kelly read out a statement from the school’s presiding member Alex Winter, who was unable to attend.
“Pak Heights is a fantastic learning environment and this structure will be a wonderful asset,” he said.
“The students will enjoy this space for years to come. Dealing with the elements such as heavy rain, intense heat, and wind is a growing challenge for all schools.
“Having another option that will keep our students sun-safe … depending on the weather … open spaces such as these are great for developing open and creative minds.
“This makes me excited as a parent and board member knowing Pak Heights’ kids will get to enjoy this space as a learning and play space.
“Fundraising by the board – many of you have played an important part to get us to this point.
“A special ‘thank you’ to our wonderful PTA members who helped to fundraise for the sandpit. It’s been a massive hit with the students.”
The school’s talented kapa haka team performed before the guest of honour, Pakuranga MP Simeon Brown, spoke.
Brown said the sunshade will be a “fantastic place for you [the pupils] to have so much fun”.
“Well done to everyone who’s played a big role. A big ‘thank you’ to everyone who’s involved in building [the sunshade] but most importantly the people who helped to raise all the money.
“It’s great to have a school which has a passionate PTA, teachers, and principal who really care about making sure you’ve got a great learning environment here.”
Brown then cut the ribbon to officially open the sunshade with help from two of the school’s pupils, Kasanita and Alex, before checking out the new sandpit.
