School principal Chris McKinlay said the veranda provided a sheltered link between rooms and created extra space for outdoor learning, but perhaps the cold, wet winter's day was not the best day to showcase it.
''We wanted an extension of the classrooms and have learning inside and outside. But in Dunedin you need a bit of cover.''
The 38m-long veranda was due to be finished before the pupils started back at school in January, but a series of delays meant it was not finished until now, Mr McKinlay said.
''It's been a long time coming. We've been talking about building this for at least five years.''
The veranda was stage one of a project which would enclose the outdoor area, providing greater shelter and making the space more versatile, he said.
- George Driver.
