The Hawea Flat school has undergone some profound changes during its 128 years, says first-time author Glenda Turnbull, who has written a history of the school.
A historical bent and a desire to write a book inspired Mrs Turnbull to approach the Hawea Flat Primary School parent teacher association with her idea.
She did the research for 128 Years on the Flat by interviewing many residents with family connections to Hawea and Maungawera, and by scouring archives for documents and photos about former pupils and the school itself, she said.
"It's been an intriguing project which has taught me a great deal about the history of the area and its founding families.
Many of them are still in the community today," the former journalist said.
An initial publication run of 1000 editions of 128 Years on the Flat is being launched at a function at Wanaka Paper Plus at noon today.
Proceeds from book sales would be used to support projects at the school, Mrs Turnbull said.
