Flag Swamp School pupils (back row, from left) Trae and Ollie Rangi (8), (middle row) Ruby Pullyn (6), Monique Pullyn (7), and Aleczander Saunderson (7), and (front row) Holly Bourne (5) were among the first New Zealand children to return to the classroom yesterday for the start of the new school year.
Apart from Cyrus Rangi (7), who was absent from school yesterday, they represent the school's entire roll.
Watching from the school gate is principal Jason Benoit.
The children are among more than 48,000 pupils who will gradually return to school between now and February 7.
PHOTO: CHRISTINE O'CONNOR
