About 600 pupils from 20 Dunedin schools marched in the annual Orange Day parade yesterday morning, led by a pipe band, in celebration of their volunteer work for school road patrol teams.
Proud teachers, parents and apparently bemused tourists watched the procession travel down George St.
St Clair School pupils Zeta McDowell-Ross and Sydney Pomerleau said they had been working as "road patrollers" throughout the school year.
"It's just good to know that you're doing it and helping people," Zeta said.
Sydney said she saw a lot of children cross the road, sometimes in a dangerous way.
"My parents are doctors and people doing very dangerous things and stupid things isn't really nice to see."
She appreciated the chance to walk down George St — "I enjoyed being able to tell the cars what to do".
In the Octagon, deputy mayor Cherry Lucas congratulated the pupils for their efforts during the school year.
"Road patrols make sure children get to school and back home again safely," Cr Lucas said.
"So it's a huge responsibility. You've been all chosen as road patrols because you're reliable, trustworthy and helpful.
"You've done a brilliant job this year, so well done."
Pupils were shouted a swim and a sausage sizzle at Moana Pool.
The event was organised by the council and Dunedin police.
