School’s fireworks fundraiser hailed a success

Nico, 3, and Riley Clark, 6, show off their balloon creations by Pippity Pop. PHOTOS: NIC DUFF
Nico, 3, and Riley Clark, 6, show off their balloon creations by Pippity Pop. PHOTOS: NIC DUFF
Luca Johns, 5, lines up a shot at the inflatable basketball hoop.
Luca Johns, 5, lines up a shot at the inflatable basketball hoop.
Mariah Taylor, 5, laughs her way down the slide on one of the bouncy castles.
Mariah Taylor, 5, laughs her way down the slide on one of the bouncy castles.
Parked up on the embankment to watch the fireworks are (from left) Emiliegh Rapsey, 7, Blake...
Parked up on the embankment to watch the fireworks are (from left) Emiliegh Rapsey, 7, Blake Rapsey, 3, Amee Annan, Amelia Annan, 10, Alfie Rapsey, 3, and John Rapsey.

For the first time since 2023, the Weston School Fireworks went off with a bang.

The Oamaru school’s major fundraising event was held at the Weston Domain on November 7.

Weston School principal Deidre Senior said it was a ‘‘hugely successful’’ event.

‘‘It’s not just about the fireworks, it’s actually about a community event and families being able to come in and take part in a whole range of activities.’’

There was a kids’ zone with bouncy castles for the younger ones while the inflatable basketball, inflatable jousting and portable laser tag were all hits with the teenagers.

Music played throughout the evening and plenty of food and drink vendors on site to keep everyone happy.

Families brought along picnic blankets and deck chairs as they found a spot on the embankment to watch the fireworks.

Mrs Senior estimated more than 4000 people attended.

‘‘To have so many people coming in was incredible. We felt like it was likely to be our biggest one yet.’’

While the final amount raised was still to be added up, it was looking like a ‘‘substantial total’’.

‘‘It will certainly help us offer some extra things in our school for our students.’’

nic.duff@oamarumail.co.nz