Students in the Preparatory School enjoyed a packed programme of events throughout Te Wiki o Ngā Pukapuka (Book Week) in the last week of Term 3, which culminated in a spectacular Book Week Parade.

During the wonderful week of learning and fun, the staff and students honoured tīpuna, kuia, and kaumātua by celebrating the older and wiser characters in children’s stories, says Preparatory School Library Manager, Tracey Hull. “These characters are the wisdom-weavers and kindness curators in our stories and nursery rhymes. We often witness a special bond between these characters and the children in the stories we read and share.”

Students were encouraged to dress up as a book character who is wise, kind, fun, or even a bit naughty for the Book Parade, and there were many fantastic costumes on display.

The Preparatory School Library hosted lots of competitions and activities throughout Book Week, including a Scavenger Hunt, Orphans Competition, Minimalist Fairy Tale Competition, and Battle of the Books.

A highlight of the week was a visit from award-winning New Zealand author and illustrator, Gavin Bishop, who captivated audiences as he A highlight of the week was a visit from award-winning New Zealand author and illustrator, Gavin Bishop, who captivated audiences as he talked about his books and creative process and read some of his stories.