Churton School whānau celebrate Puanga/Matariki with big breakfast in Whanganui

Churton School students and their whānau ready to release lanterns into the dawn sky. Photo / Supplied

Lanterns flew up high as dawn was brightening the sky above Churton School in Whanganui last week.

They were released by students following a kōrero from Terrence Matthews in celebration of Puanga/Matariki.

Whānau watched on as the paper lanterns floated higher and higher, until they were no longer visible.

Then everybody said a karakia, sung a waiata and enjoyed a tasty cooked breakfast.

Deputy principal Gary Johnston said that an important focus for the school was creating and growing connections.

"The breakfast was an opportunity for parents to catch up with teachers and meet some of the wider community educators involved in the school," Johnston said.

"The passion and commitment shown by the group of parents and teachers helping to run the breakfast was an indication of the strong community feel in the school."

Johnston appreciated the support of Wanganui Veterinary Services and Whanganui New World Supermarket.

He said that Churton School's big breakfast continues to be an important annual event in the school calendar.

Churton School students and whānau enjoy their kai as part of their Puanga/Matariki celebration. Photo / Supplied