Games galore at Whangaparāoa gala

From left, Three-year-old Cooper has his hands full. Meisha, 5, and Aiella, 3, are lost in a world of soft toys.

Whangaparāoa School’s annual gala on March 16 drew enthusiastic crowds of happy children and parents to what is both a fun day and important fundraiser for the school.

From kapa haka, cheerleader, karate and fire-fighting displays by Manly firefighters to heaps of games and stalls selling food and drinks of every description, there was something for everyone on what turned out to be a fine day.

Gala project managers Alannah Elliot and Debbie Pincott reported a provisional profit of $31,000 raised on the day. The school plans to use the funds to upgrade the orchard area to enable the children to grow more fruit, and support learning assistants. Any money left over will be used to replace playground equipment.

“We are very pleased with the support, especially in the current economic climate. But the money is just a happy by-product of what is an opportunity to bring the community together and put on a fab day for the children.”