‘Fun raiser’ event view to a thrill
Promising a day of adventure with views to match, organisers of Hira School’s annual fundraiser say Sunday’s Valley to View Family Fun Day will be ‘‘the best yet.’’
The outdoor event sees the school team up with iconic tourism business Happy Valley Adventures who host the day of family fun on their Cable Bay property.
Organiser Kirsten McGhie said this year’s emphasis was on providing an affordable day out for families and the school was extremely grateful to Happy Valley’s owner Jill Anderson for making the day possible.
McGhie said the event was a once a year chance for the public to get out and explore the scenic trails, spectacular views and visit the Tree Tops Cafe where the sky wire will operate.
The Valley to View loop trail also took in panoramic views of Pepin Island and Delaware Bay.
Beginning at 10am, entry has been reduced to a gold coin which will allow access to the scenic river flats trail where kids can enjoy a scavenger hunt on their bikes or by simply walking.
Entertainment at the Happy Valley base will include fire service displays, the harbour master’s vessel Punawhai on site as well as stalls and mini-paintball.
Hira School Principal Symon Beattie said funds raised this year would go towards upgrading the school’s playground to provide accessible new equipment to children of all ages while being inclusive of students with special needs.
‘‘Our playground gets a lot of use during school hours but also in weekends and holidays as it is the only playground in Hira. I am stoked to see the level of commitment our local families have given to see this project completed.’’
Beattie said Hira School was also hoping to secure grants funding to achieve the full scope of the planned upgrade.
‘‘Children have been involved in the planning process for our new playground and are really keen to see their plans become a reality. Being a decile 10 school has its plus side of course, but in terms of government funding, it does mean that fundraising is crucially important to us.’’