Combined event ‘camaraderie’

Pupils and students of all ages competed at the combined schools cross-country held at Opihi College last week, which had five schools in attendance. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Schools around Temuka hit the ground running last week.

Temuka’s combined schools cross-country was held at Opihi College last week.

The event brought together pupils and students from across the Temuka community for a day of competition and camaraderie.

Pupils and students from new entrants through to Year 13 took to the course, representing Temuka Primary School, St Joseph's School Temuka, Arowhenua Māori School, Winchester Rural School and Opihi College.

The event celebrated not only athletic achievement but also the spirit of togetherness.

A college spokesperson said the day was a resounding success, with all participating schools offering glowing feedback on the event.

"It was a fantastic opportunity for students of all ages to come together, compete, and connect with peers from across the region's schools."

Adding to the experience, Opihi College students ran alongside competitors as pacemakers, supporting and encouraging the younger runners throughout the course.

For one of the pacemakers, Eva South, the highlight was "running with the little kids and helping them out".

"It was great to be the ones hosting the event."

There was a strong turnout of families and friends who lined the course to cheer on the competitors.

"Watching the community come together and supporting each other was really special," Opihi College student Hayden Young said.

"It was wonderful to see the kids giving it their all, and heartwarming to see them cheering on students from the other schools too."

Opihi College thanked all the schools who participated and to everyone who came out in support.

Temuka Combined Schools Cross Country 2026 Winners:

Year level: 1st, 2nd, 3rd.

Y0-1 boys: Fergus McAtamney, Billy Rogers, Olly Rogers

Y0- 1 girls: Maysie Salisbury, Chloe Bray, Daisy Gordon

Y2 boys: Fergus Clearwater, Parker Neame, Primo Corullo

Y2 girls: Rosie Norton, Evie Johnston, Elsie Curvis