Fun for the Whole Whānau

Opened in 1886, Springlands School has been at the centre of its local community for an incredible 139 years. A major highlight is the annual School Gala to be held this year on Saturday September 13 from 10am to 2pm.

Adrienne Matthews

The school with 370 pupils, continues to grow and the proceeds from this year’s Gala will go toward a much-needed upgrade of the school’s swimming pool changing rooms. The school pool is a great asset used by the school’s tamariki along with the local community. “We are thrilled that all funds raised will go towards improving the facilities,” says Principal Hamish Stuart. “The upgrade of the changing rooms will include new bench seating, overhead lockers, painting, flooring and new bathroom facilities.”

A phenomenal amount of effort goes into making this Gala as popular as it is, led by a team of enthusiastic and committed volunteers with students, staff, parents and supporters, including many local businesses, getting right behind it.

Fun for the kids includes Bouncy Castles, Chocolate Toss, a Sandpit Dig, Lucky Dip, Treasure Island, Lolly Jar, Crazy Hair, Temporary Tattoos, Face Painting and a Kids Disco. There will also be a fire truck and police car on display.

There is also plenty of food and drink on offer including a bake sale, Details’ Pulled Pork Sliders, Mango’s Indian food, a lemonade stand, ice creams, hot chips, sausage sizzle, bacon butties, candy floss and popcorn along with coffee thanks to Koffie Mobile.

Live entertainment will be provided throughout the day by Springlands School children.

Always popular is the silent auction, which boasts an impressive array of items generously donated by local Marlborough businesses. A standout this year is a romantic getaway for one lucky couple to Kaikōura in a vintage Art Deco plane, courtesy of JEM Aviation. They will enjoy a scenic flight along the coastline before arriving at Esses Vineyard for a Méthode Traditionnelle wine masterclass, followed by a gourmet picnic in the vineyard and a bottle of their favourite sparkling wine.

There is also a Christchurch weekend escape for five people, including an SUV to explore the city in style, thanks to Blenheim Toyota. There’s a fantastic day out at the Marlborough Wine & Food Festival, including brunch, transport, and premium glassware, or a fun night out with friends at Small Town Winery.

For the young sports fans, there’s a group coaching session on offer including rugby with Moana Pasifika and Waikato Chiefs’ Kyren Taumoefolau or cricket with former New Zealand international Chris Cairns. Other amazing items include a specialised bike with accessories, a smoko shout for your office or event featuring coffees from Koffie Mobile and pastries from Minghettis, along with a wide range of vouchers for local businesses, wine and cocktail packs, and so much more.

Purchase a Mystery Key ticket at the Gala and go in the draw to win a Chromebook Package from BP Computers valued at over $550. This will be drawn at 1.30pm.

“Last year was my first Gala as Principal of Springlands School and I was blown away by the hundreds of people that attended from all over Marlborough,” Hamish explains. “The plant sale, pre-loved toy & book sale, silent auction and the endless entertainment for children, makes the Gala an attractive day out for the whole community to attend as there really is something for everyone. It was great to see so many local Marlborough families in attendance, as well as grandparents, enjoying everything the Gala has to offer.”

“We are very grateful for the support of the Springlands School community as well as the wider Marlborough community,” he adds. “These events require a lot of organisation and support, and we couldn’t do it without their help. Local Marlborough businesses have once again been amazingly generous with their donations for the silent auction, and we can’t thank them enough for this”.

Whether you’re after a fun-filled day of activities, keen to support a great cause, or on the hunt for unique finds at the silent auction, the Springlands School Gala has something for everyone. Prepare for a day of laughter, connection, and celebration. Be sure to check the Gala Map ahead of time so you can make the most of your visit.