Orewa College students represent 19 countries at the International Festival on 27 March, raising funds for local community organisations.

Whole-school event features 19 countries and raises funds for local charities

Orewa College marked its annual International Festival on Friday 27 March, with 19 countries represented by Year 12 and 13 students and Year 11 international students sharing cultures connected to their own backgrounds.

Stalls reflected a wide range of cultures, including Hungary, Tonga and Māori, China, South Africa, Samoa and Fiji, and Japan. Students prepared food, language displays, and performances for judging across six categories: Food Presentation, Stall Decorations, Food Taste, Use of Language, Costumes, and Enthusiasm. Samoa and Fiji and India and Sri Lanka were named equal top, with the Philippines placing third.

The event brought together the whole school, with strong participation from students, staff, and whānau throughout the day. It was led by Global Citizens and Community Manukura, with support from local sponsors Tasca Beach, Thai Orewa, and Canton Flavor Orewa.

Funds raised from the festival will support Love Soup and Orewa Community House, with each organisation receiving over $1,500.

The International Festival began in 1992 under the leadership of Ms Gillian Gamble, then Head of the English Department, to celebrate cultural diversity and New Zealand’s multicultural society. It has continued for more than 30 years and remains a key event on the school calendar, with plans to introduce a performance component later this year.

Photo Credit: Masami Stewart

Content Credit: Zhorine, Pranav, Maddy Derbyshire-Smith, 

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