The Playground Opening 11 May 2014

As I look back today, it's hard to believe that this amazing playground was just a wild dream after the 2010/2011 earthquakes.
It just didn't seem possible that in the midst of the loss, stress and heartbreak that we would see such a positive thing happen for our children. It all seemed a bit too hard.
On Friday 11 May we hosted about 400 volunteers, builders, community members, Rotarians, students and ex students,staff and ex staff, parents and friends of the school. 
Rotary funded a spit roast sandwich and sausage sizzle so we could feed everyone.
Duane gave a great speech and the Rotarians from Pukekohe and South West  Christchurch had a chance to talk about their commitment to us.
We were given money, equipment and thousands of hours of building time. 

Graham Harris Pukekohe Rotary, Dave Burford Christchurch West Rotary and Duane Major co-board chair WSS

the commemorative plaque

Stacey does a try taste

Graham, Terry, Dave and Huntley Quinn. Huntley is the builder engineer extraordinaire

Richard Pearson Rotarian in the red checks. He came every weekend to build, paint, dig, shift or tie.

Terry Shannon Pukekohe Rotary and Dave Burford Christchurch West Rotary. Generous donations of $40000

Janice, Jared and Donna

The ribbon was cut by Dave Burford and the playground was swamped by eager kids and adults. The university students from the student army were the biggest kids of all.
They tell me that this is the biggest community built playground in NZ and I'm inclined to believe it. There are generous caring people in our community who work for the benefit of others and with no thought of recognition or reward. Thank you to so many people who made our dreams come true. 

the speeches

Tricia handing out the commemorative tags

The cutting of the ribbon.