Where everyone’s a winner

30 Oct 2025 • By Jon Rawlinson

Lochie Craig and Briar Robinson

School pet days have gone ahead despite recent unfriendly weather – and there were ribbons galore on show at Aria School. A four wheel drive was employed to get some contestants to the show – though a couple of families were left at home thanks to flooding.

Isaac Alcock gives his ribbon-wrapped lamb a hug

Pets overcome the big wet

They’ve been bringing lambs, calves, chickens and some kids even brought their kids to agricultural, calf club and pet days throughout the country recently.

Intended to grow young students’ growing, rearing and raising knowledge, these events have become a regular part of the school year, mostly for rural primary schools.

Piopio Calf Club entries, from left, Marley Langlands, Lily Draper and Bella Price.

Billie Jones, Aria Pet Day

However, in some of the areas worst impacted by recent heavy rain, not everyone could bring their animals to school to show the results of their hard work over recent months.

“Unfortunately, two of our families couldn’t make it along because they were flooded in,” Āria School principal, Pam Voyce, said. “It was sad for the two girls as they couldn’t bring their calves.

“Also, as the roads were closed, two other families had to travel ‘cross country’, in a four-wheel-drive, Barry Crump style across some farms. They were a little bit late but still got here with their animals, which was great for them.”

While many of the school’s families were counting the cost of flooding and slips, Voyce says the event helped to lift spirits.

“Otherwise, it was lovely. We had a little bit of drizzle but it was (mostly) a beautiful day with happy vibes. It was a great day had by all.”

Similarly, Piopio Primary School’s MYSC (Merehuia Young Stock Club) Calf Club saw attendees ensure their children were able to take part in the school’s much-enjoyed annual event.

“It was great to have our community come together following the recent extreme weather,” school principal, Sue Coyle, said.

“We had a very successful day with many entries, including animals – lambs, calves, and goats – and indoor entries of crafts, baking and flowers. The high standard of the animals was evident and the excitement of the tamariki when they received ribbons and prizes made all the preparation and hard work worthwhile.”