The Hikuai School Hunting & Fishing Competition has celebrated its biggest and most successful year to date, with $18,000 raised and a record 310 entrants taking part in the much-loved annual event from June 19-June 21.
Competitors and families gathered to celebrate the event with food, live music from Tim Santner and a presentation of prizes.
Teacher and organiser Nicola Russell said it was an “incredible” amount of money raised.
“All of that money goes back into the school. This year it is going towards buying new literacy resources and outdoor learning equipment for our tamariki,” she said.
Nicola and the group of organisers estimated there were more than 300 people who attended the weigh-in and prizegiving.
It created a “fantastic atmosphere” of strong community spirit, she said.
This year’s competition attracted both adult and child entrants with a prize pool of more than $26,000, which helped to make the event one to remember.
Competitors provided 48 pigs for weigh-in, alongside a great turnout of snapper and a huge selection of critters, including hundreds of possums.
“The support we receive from our sponsors, the Friends of Hikuai School Charitable Trust, our volunteers, community and entrants is absolutely amazing,” she said.
“This event really is a reflection of what can be achieved when people come together to support our school and our rural community.”
