After months of hard work Grantlea Downs School celebrated the opening of its sensory footpath last Friday.
The school has been working on the footpath as well as a sensory garden for the past few months, finally finishing it in term 4.
Grantlea Downs School acting principal Sandra Annett said the footpath was inspired by Te Aitarakihi Stream, which runs behind the school.
‘‘We are grateful to the people who donated their time and effort as well as materials to help bring it to life. The legacy of this project will last a long time.’’
She also thanked Grantlea Downs School creative organiser Penni Naylor and Grantlea Downs School creative arts project coordinator Raelyn Guise and said they were the driving force behind this project.
The footpath was blessed by Taumata o Te Aitarakihi members Ani Haua, Hohepa and Trish Holland.
Grantlea Downs School pupils from room 10 read their poetry about the path.
The ribbon to open the path was cut by Tristan Greenfield (5) and Jackson Collis (13), the youngest pupil and oldest pupil at the school, and the school performed a haka.
Ms Naylor said the ceremony went well.
‘‘It was quite emotional really. This happened because of everyone who helped,’’ she said.
