Editorial: Richie McCaw visit to Kimi Ora Community School a much deserved reward

Hawke's Bay Today News Editor James Ford. Photo / File.

He may not don the All Blacks number seven jersey anymore, but Richie McCaw still has the ability to make a hall full of children become hysterical with excitement.

Kimi Ora Community School produced a stellar viral video, fronted by 11-year old Blaze Waerea, to earn a milk delivery via helicopter from the ex-All Black superstar.

The 148 test former skipper is best known for raising the Webb Ellis Cup on two occasions, but next week he'll be raising a glass of milk with the students.

McCaw is the face of a Fonterra initiative that brings milk from the farm to the classroom.

Farmers throughout New Zealand are working together to bring milk to kids through Fonterra's Milk for Schools campaign for free.

It is open to all primary schools that would like to take part and now has reached 70 per cent of primary schools in New Zealand.

It's a commendable cause, and the efforts of those involved in creating such a fun and endearing video must be applauded.

The innocent joy and honesty on display throughout the video gives a heart-warming insight into the nature of the school, and, of course, the charismatic frontman.

The day McCaw touches down will no doubt be firmly etched in the memories of all at Kimi Ora Community School and I'm confident that it won't be a day that Richie forgets in a hurry, either.

Congratulations all-round on a fine effort to the staff and students.

Oh, and Blaze, don't forget your "flash shoes!"