Edu Magazine | Issue One 2025 by Review Publishing Ltd

Welcome to the First Edition of Edu

This magazine extends the reach of eduresource.co.nz, bringing together a collection of articles, insights, and resources in one easy-to-read format. As a fully digital publication, it is designed to be accessible wherever you are, from your desk, to the staffroom or catching up at home.

Our aim is simple: to provide educators with practical ideas, useful perspectives, and thought-provoking articles that reflect the challenges and opportunities in today’s classrooms and schools. Just like our website, this magazine is a living resource. Each edition will draw on the most relevant content while also highlighting new conversations shaping education.

Education is changing, but one constant is the dedication of teachers, support staff, and leaders who give so much to their students and communities. We hope you

find in these pages insights that support your work, spark new thinking, and connect you with the wider education community across Aotearoa and beyond.

Thank you for joining our readership as we grow Edu as a trusted digital space for educators.

Editor-in-Chief

Publisher

Tania Walters

General Manager

Kieran Mitchell

Editorial Director

Caitlan Mitchell

Editor-in-Chief

Sarah Mitchell

Content Managers

Caroline Boe

Daniel Rogers

Editorial Associates

Jenelle Sequeira

Graphic Designers

Raymund Sarmiento

Raymund Santos

Retail 6, Heards Building, 2 Ruskin Street, Parnell, Auckland, New Zealand

+64 9 304 0142 info@reviewmags.com

ISSN 3021-4556

Edu is published quarterly under license. Please direct all enquiries and correspondence to Edu. The opinions and material published in this edition of Edu are not necessarily those of the publishers unless specifically stated. All material appearing in Edu is copyright and may only be reproduced with the consent of the publisher. Copyright 2025.

Become A Part Of The Collective Today!

Be part of something bigger –join The Community Store! You heard it here first! The Community Store has introduced a new online grocery platform offering great deals on everyday essentials like milk and eggs, with every purchase given back to your selected organisation.

Becoming empowered individuals who contribute to meaningful causes through everyday purchases can foster a sense of shared responsibility and community growth. By making choices that support initiatives aimed at improving lives, each contribution becomes a step toward stronger, interconnected communities.

Why Choose The Community Store?

• Fundraising made easy – no sausage sizzles required

• Free to join – no fees, no subscriptions

• Recurring income – support comes from every time someone shops

• Great prices – members save and give back

• Mobile-friendly – perfect for busy families

• Live results from the online portal, providing money raised and top contributors

How It Works?

• Browse the range of products and add them to your cart.

• Choose the Group or Organisation you want to support.

• Track your impact and see amounts raised via the online portal.

Together, we can transform ordinary actions into extraordinary impact, cultivating a brighter future for families and neighbourhoods alike.

SCAN NOW to join the waitlist now, with the platform set to launch in September 2025 in the wider Auckland area officially.

CONTACT: team@tctradingco.co.nz https://go.communitystore.co.nz

The Screen Time Struggle

Recently, the Australian Government has taken strong steps toward restricting social media access for children under 16. Whatever your stance on the policy, it invites us all to pause and reflect on the role screens play in our daily lives, the habits we model for our children, and the long-term impact of growing up in an always-connected world.

In 2025, screens shape how we work, learn, communicate, and manage our daily lives. From checking the weather to banking, booking appointments, and staying in touch with loved ones, digital devices have become essential tools. For parents, this makes limiting screen time more complex than simply setting boundaries. When time is short, expectations are high, and support is limited, screens often feel like the only thing holding everything together.

In a culture that often values productivity over presence, play is too often viewed as optional when in fact, it’s essential. It can be hard for parents to feel like play (even for themselves) is time well spent when there are emails to answer, dinner to cook, and a hundred other things pulling focus. So, reluctantly and increasingly, they turn to screens.

In the short-term, screen time can offer respite for everyone when children are tired, bored, or need calming. A phone or tablet can buy a moment of peace, a quiet dinner, or a completed errand. These are not failures of parenting. They are reflections of high expectations, too much to do with limited time, and with little support.

To further add to the complexity, not all screen time is created equal. There is a meaningful difference between watching a movie together as a family and handing a phone to a small child to watch and interact with alone. Shared screen time, where conversation, connection and engagement happen, can be a bonding experience. Passive, solo screen use, especially for very young children provides a very different experience.

While screens may occupy children’s time, they don’t offer what growing minds and bodies truly need: rich, real-world play. Scarier still, when not closely supervised, digital connection can often open children to worlds they are not ready for.

Research highlights how excessive or inappropriate screen exposure in the early years can affect attention span, language development, sleep patterns and social skillsi. When screens replace face-to-face communication, play and exploration, we risk missing the ‘teachable moments’ and crucial opportunities to support and foster development and relationships.

We know that play that engages the body and mind is essential for children’s development through activities like moving, problem solving, talking, exploring, and questioning. Connection, creativity and hands-on experiences are the foundation for healthy, happy children.

This is where our systems and institutions need to step up. If our early health and education systems rely heavily on connected devices, or if learning is increasingly digital, how can parents be expected to push back against screen use at home? It’s unfair to place the entire burden on families when our institutions and environments are reinforcing the very habits parents are trying to manage.

What is the alternative? We need to reframe how we think about play and it starts with making play easy, visible and valued. It needs to be recognised as a necessary part of childhood; as valuable as ticking off work tasks or household chores. Play needs to be understood as a vital component of learning.

How things work, why things work, rules of games, what can be negotiated and what cannot are all learned through play. It needs to be thought of as a “must have” like swimming lessons or pre-school. Investing in play is investing in a child’s development. It builds confidence, wellbeing, language and social skills and capacity to learn.

Community playgroups can and do make this a reality. They are welcoming spaces where families can connect and build their own play facilitation skills, children can socialise and explore at developmentally appropriate levels, and everyone contributes to an experience that is grounded in the reality of physical presence and social connection.

Parents aren’t failing by relying on devices, they are doing their best within a culture that doesn’t always make alternatives easy or easily accessible. We need to shift that culture and reflect on our systems and how they reinforce the importance of devices in our day to day lives. We must celebrate the power of play, support families to prioritise it, and create more moments of real-world connection beyond the screen.

BY PATRICIA O’DONOVAN, CEO, PLAYGROUP AUSTRALIA

Dulux on Designing for Learning

Colour plays a far greater role in education than simply brightening classroom walls. In schools and learning environments, it can shape mood, influence behaviour, and directly support student wellbeing and learning outcomes. Dulux has long recognised this, developing a considered approach to colour specification that is grounded in research, design principles, and experience working closely with schools across New Zealand.

The company draws on both international and local research into the psychology of colour and evidencebased design for learning. Different age groups and contexts require different palettes: young learners often thrive in playful, stimulating spaces, while older students concentrate better in calmer, more neutral settings. Dulux also references biophilic design studies, which highlight the positive effect of nature-inspired colours on wellbeing. Greens, earthy neutrals, and soft blues are proving especially effective in creating restorative learning environments.

The impact of colour extends to teachers as well. Well-balanced palettes can reduce visual fatigue and support productivity by creating classrooms that are not only functional but uplifting. Warm, softer tones can calm busy spaces, while brighter accents energise and inspire creativity when used strategically. In this way, colour becomes part of the toolkit for building inclusive, engaging, and effective learning spaces.

In practice, Dulux’s projects in schools have demonstrated tangible results. At Ohope Beach School, a recent refurbishment used zoned palettes of soft greens and blues in classroom areas, offset by energising accents in breakout zones. Teachers reported noticeable improvements in student engagement and behaviour, while students themselves described the refurbished classrooms as happier, calmer places to learn. At another school, colour was

applied as a wayfinding strategy, guiding movement across a large campus and reinforcing the school’s visual identity.

Trends in educational design are evolving in both New Zealand and overseas. Natural, outdoor-inspired palettes are in high demand, with schools opting for muted greens, warm timbers, and earthy neutrals to create calm, restorative settings. Flexible, multipurpose spaces are also influencing colour use, where tone and contrast differentiate zones for collaboration, focus, or creativity. Importantly, New Zealand schools are increasingly embedding cultural identity into colour choices, drawing from local landscapes and Māori design narratives to make environments both inclusive and meaningful.

Of course, practicality is as vital as aesthetics. Classrooms are among the hardest-working spaces, so durability is essential. Dulux has responded with its Wash&Wear range, developed for high-traffic environments. The washable finish allows scuffs and marks to be wiped away with ease, ensuring spaces remain vibrant for longer. Low-VOC formulations and resistance to mould and mildew also support healthier indoor air quality, benefitting both students and teachers.

By combining research-led colour strategies with durable, sustainable products, Dulux is helping schools shape environments that are not only visually inspiring but also practical and supportive of the complex needs of learning communities.

Image credit: Governor General of New Zealand

Selwyn’s Nuturing Success

For Sheryl Ofner, education has always been at the heart of her passions. Having taken the reins as principal of Auckland’s Selwyn College in 2008, Ofner and her team have turned what was once a struggling school with a dwindling role into one of the area’s highestperforming schools with strong leadership and student success.

Reflecting on her recent appointment as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM), Ofner said the honour was deeply meaningful and a highlight of her career. It was, in fact, a recognition of her tireless efforts to better education standards not only at Selwyn College, but nationally.

“It was very exciting, and I felt so honoured to receive it.

Attending the investiture really brought home to me how important the honour is, and it made me just feel so incredibly special,” she said.

Early in her career, Ofner was a history teacher and actively involved in curriculum development and national assessment. She was an instrumental figure in the history teaching community,

spearheading the establishment of the New Zealand History Teachers Association, chairing the Auckland branch, and influential in NZQA initiatives as a chair of various committees.

Her role as an educator has taken her outside her primary role as a teacher, having worked as an examiner in the Pacific and for history bursaries and scholarships in New Zealand. But if you ask her what her favourite thing of all is, she has always loved being a teacher.

“I do treasure being able to think about how to be a really good teacher, and I have since the minute I became a teacher until now. Teaching and learning is my passion.”

When she took on the job as principal of Selwyn College,

the school was struggling, both academically and in terms of confidence within the community. Enrolments were low, achievement rates were poor, and the pass rate for NCEA Level 1 was hovering around 30 percent.

Under Ofner’s leadership, the school underwent a sustained focus on student-centred education and support tailored to each individual student. This transformation began what has been 17 years of growth, elevating the school’s reputation academically and in the community with over 1,500 locally enrolled students.

Ofner said this growth has not been at the cost of Selwyn’s core values. The ethos of caring for each student and enforcing belief in personal learning opportunities and development has been essential to Selwyn’s success. She believes in every student’s ability to find a balance of personalisation and high expectations, ensuring each student is able to reach their full potential, both academically and personally. The school’s motto is to “Be the Best You Can Be”.

School-wide learning initiatives such as “Selwise” and “The Selwyn Way” reflect the school’s philosophy. They guide students on wellbeing, learning and development, and personal values. Both frameworks have been developed over time to address the challenges of the day, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic, where students were reminded to nurture their wellbeing amid shifting priorities and circumstances.

The Selwyn SILver medal is another student programme to help students develop the ‘whole person’ and understand the importance of service, involvement and leadership within the school and wider community.

Ofner said Selwyn’s success lies not in its systems alone, but in the people (staff, board and students) who believe in and enact these values daily.

Leadership, consistency and community involvement have been integral to maintaining Selwyn College’s unique culture. While some of its practices can be shared by other schools, it’s the sustained commitment from staff and students that makes the difference, which isn’t something that can be easily replicated.

Rapid urban growth has increased the student roll, prompting new projects like a soon-to-open Social Sciences building and further developments for additional infrastructure in Technology especially. Sheryll believes that the biggest challenge facing Selwyn College and indeed all schools is the impact of artificial intelligence.

Sheryll believes that developing students’ agency, self-regulation, critical thinking, creativity and adaptability and the ability to collaborate should be at the center of secondary education and this is certainly the mission at Selwyn College.

The unwavering belief in every student’s potential, backed by practical support systems and strong leadership, has remained the nucleus of Selwyn’s enduring legacy.

Image credit: Selwyn College

School Fundraising

Fundraising is at the heart of many New Zealand school communities. From supporting classroom resources to funding camps, sports trips and cultural events, well-planned fundraisers provide vital financial support while bringing people together.

Running a successful fundraiser takes more than enthusiasm. It requires planning, creativity, and a focus on building strong relationships with families, staff and the wider community.

Here’s your guide to organising fundraisers that are fun, effective and make a lasting impact.

WHY FUNDRAISING MATTERS FOR SCHOOLS

While government funding covers core needs, many schools rely on additional income to enhance student experiences. Fundraisers help pay for extras like playground upgrades, new technology, library books, EOTC activities and cultural programmes. They also offer opportunities for students to develop teamwork, leadership and financial literacy, especially when they are involved in planning and delivery.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT FUNDRAISER

The best fundraisers are those that fit your school’s values and community. Before choosing an idea, consider:

• School Culture: Will families prefer traditional events like sausage sizzles or newer, health-focused options?

• Volunteer Capacity: Do you have enough helpers for a big gala or is a smaller, low-effort idea more realistic?

• Timing: Avoid clashing with other school or community events.

• Inclusivity: Make sure your event is accessible to all families.

GETTING STUDENTS INVOLVED

Fundraising is a chance to teach valuable life skills. Student leaders can:

• Design posters and social media posts

• Plan event activities

• Help run stalls or games

• Record donations and thank supporters

Involving students increases participation and strengthens school spirit.

PARTNERING WITH YOUR COMMUNITY

Local businesses are often willing to support schools through sponsorship, donations or in-kind contributions. Build relationships by:

• Offering promotional opportunities at events

• Acknowledging sponsors in newsletters and social media

• Inviting businesses to take part in school fairs or markets

• These partnerships benefit both the school and the local economy.

Fundraising is about more than raising money. It builds connections, creates memories and gives students opportunities to grow. With the right planning and community support, your next school fundraiser can be both rewarding and impactful.

Popular Fundraising Ideas

1. Community Gala or Fair

A classic option that combines entertainment with stalls, games and performances. Great for showcasing student talent and engaging local businesses.

2. Fun Run or Walkathon

Encourages physical activity while raising sponsorships. Add colourful themes like a colour run to attract interest.

3. Sausage Sizzles and Bake Sales

Still popular, but consider offering vegetarian and allergy-friendly options to include more families.

4. Raffles and Silent Auctions

Work with local businesses to source prizes and promote your school in the community.

5. Quiz Nights or Talent Shows

Engage parents and staff in a social evening that also raises funds.

6. Healthy Fundraising Alternatives

Sell seasonal fruit boxes, plants, or reusable products that align with sustainability goals.

Eco-Friendly Fundraising Ideas

Fundraising is an important part of school life, but traditional events often rely on single-use plastics, sugary treats and waste-heavy practices.

More schools are now embracing sustainable fundraising options that support both their financial goals and environmental values.

By choosing eco-friendly fundraisers, schools can set a positive example for students and the wider community while still raising the funds they need.

WHY GO SUSTAINABLE?

Sustainable fundraising aligns with many schools’ efforts to promote environmental stewardship and health. It encourages students to think critically about waste reduction and responsible consumption. It also appeals to families and community members who are becoming increasingly aware of their environmental impact.

ECO-FRIENDLY FUNDRAISING IDEAS

1. Reusable Product Sales

Offer practical items such as beeswax wraps, stainless steel drink bottles, reusable coffee cups or shopping bags. These support waste-free living and are popular with families.

2. Native Plant and Seedling Sales

Partner with a local nursery to sell native plants, herbs or vegetable seedlings. This supports biodiversity and encourages gardening at home.

3. School-grown Produce Markets

If your school has a garden, sell surplus vegetables, herbs or flowers. Students can help with harvesting, packaging and running the market stall.

4. Second-hand Book and Uniform Sales

Host a pre-loved book fair or uniform sale. These events promote reusing and are simple to organise.

5. Clothing or Toy Swaps

Run a swap day where families can exchange gently used items for a small entry fee or gold coin donation.

6. Walk-to-School Day Fundraiser

Encourage families to walk, cycle or scooter to school and donate what they would have spent on petrol. Combine with a breakfast stall offering healthy snacks.

7. Electronic Waste Recycling Drives

Collect old phones, batteries or small devices for recycling. Some recycling companies pay schools for certain types of e-waste.

8. Craft Markets Featuring Local

Invite local makers to sell eco-friendly products at a school craft fair, with a percentage of profits going to the school.

TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL ECO FUNDRAISERS

• Choose ideas that align with your school’s environmental policies.

• Communicate the sustainability message clearly to families and supporters.

• Minimise single-use plastics at all events by using compostable or reusable serving options.

• Work with local suppliers to reduce transport emissions and support your community.

TEACHING SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH FUNDRAISING

Eco-friendly fundraisers are more than a way to raise money. They also offer learning opportunities for students. From planting seedlings to running a waste-free market, these activities build environmental awareness, teamwork and organisational skills.

Sustainable fundraising helps schools achieve their goals while modelling the values of care and responsibility. By shifting towards greener practices, schools can raise funds in a way that protects both their community and the planet.

Napier Business

Serves Kiwi Kids

Fifteen years ago, when ordering anything online was still a novelty, a small team in Hawke’s Bay built a service that would change the way New Zealand parents fed their tamariki.

Today, Lunchonline has clocked up more than 3.3 million lunches delivered to children across the country, while providing vital extra income for hundreds of small, local food providers and has proudly marked its fifteenth birthday.

Launched in 2010 by Jason Heaven, Sharon Chapman, Julie Gillies and the late David Chapman, Lunchonline provided a solution for busy parents – and an income stream for regional food providers like bakeries and sandwich shops.

“It was all about giving parents the ability to order and pay for a variety of food items online, have them delivered to school, and at the same time taking the pressure off schools when it came to handling cash or managing a canteen roster,” said Heaven.

“I’d fielded a lot of phone calls and emails from schools wanting the bakery to provide school lunches, but I didn’t want the hassle of making a lot of food that might not sell, or handling cash and change. I mentioned it to Sharon and David from ABC, and it

seemed like there might be a business there.”

Within a couple of months, ABC had designed a platform where whānau could log on, pick from a menu of appetising lunch items, pay, and then Jason and his bakery team would get to work fulfilling the order.

“Honestly, it was brilliant. I knew from the outset I would need 10 ham rolls, eight wraps, four chocolate brownies, and so on – so there was no waste.”

And no waste meant lower pricing for parents.

“I could offer my items to schools at between six and 12 percent lower prices than you’d get in the cabinet, knowing it was all going on the courier van straight to the school. Nothing would get thrown away.”

From those early days of selling pies and sandwiches, Lunchonline’s first-to-market platform expanded to more providers, more schools, and sought wider reach.

It now provides school lunches to whānau from Whangarei to Invercargill, offering a wide variety of cuisines supplied by bakeries, burger bars and sandwich franchises to suit most dietary and cultural needs, including Halal, vegetarian and vegan options.

But it’s sushi that is the most-ordered lunch item.

“That’s an indicator of how tastes have changed – back in 2010, it was all about the sausage rolls and sammies.”

With hospitality costs rising and families feeling the pinch of the cost-of-living crisis, Heaven said the made-to-order model continues to deliver great value to lunch providers, as well as the almost 100,000 parents who have used the portal, relieving pressure on parents and ensuring children’s bellies are full and their brains engaged.

“After the Canterbury earthquakes, we were able to continue delivering lunches to schools when supermarkets were shut for demolition or repairs,” added Heaven.

“Families couldn’t go and do their normal shopping, but we were able to step in and keep the lunches flowing.”

A bonus for schools that choose Lunchonline is that it serves as a small income for them as well.

“A portion of each sale is redirected back to the school, so they earn something too.”

The Napier-headquartered Lunchonline team is adapting to new needs as they arise. It’s developed tools that can now process fundraising payments for school sausage sizzles, streamline the purchase of uniforms or sports apparel, enable tickets to the school production to be bought, or just about anything else the school and its whānau might require, all through the same secure online system.

It’s been a change in mindset for schools and for families, but a really successful one.

“Still, our bread and butter remains the lunches. I’m proud that we’ve been able to make ordering a nutritious school lunch simpler for people and have helped hundreds of bakeries and food outlets stay afloat through 15 years of financial challenges and cost-ofliving rises. For some, that’s made all the difference.”

Building Balanced School Lunch Menus for Kiwi Kids

Good nutrition fuels learning, focus and wellbeing. In New Zealand schools, nutrition plays a vital role in student success. Schools influence what children eat through tuck shops, lunch programmes and classroom learning.

Kumara, seafood, or puha can honour Māori traditions, while rice dishes may appeal to Asian students. Offering halal, vegetarian or allergen-friendly options further ensures inclusivity. Involving whānau and students in menu development helps create menus that reflect community values and preferences.

Offering balanced, appealing food options not only supports physical health but also helps students stay focused, energised and engaged.

WHY NUTRITION MATTERS AT SCHOOL

Students who are well-nourished are better able to concentrate, regulate emotions, and fully participate in learning. Poor nutrition can lead to fatigue, behavioural issues and delayed development. Recognising this, New Zealand’s Ministry of Health provides guidelines encouraging schools to limit processed foods and sugary drinks while promoting whole foods and water.

School food environments are part of a school’s broader responsibility to protect student well-being. Many schools now view nutrition as a core component of student care alongside academic achievement.

BUILDING A BALANCED MENU

A healthy school lunch includes a variety of food groups. Key components are:

• Whole grains: Brown rice, wholemeal bread, pasta and oats provide energy and fibre.

• Lean proteins: Chicken, eggs, tofu, legumes and fish support growth and brain function.

• Fruits and vegetables: Colourful, fresh options deliver vitamins and minerals.

• Healthy fats: Nuts, seeds, avocado and olive oil promote heart and brain health.

• Dairy or alternatives: Milk, yoghurt or plant-based options provide calcium for bone health.

• Water: The default beverage for hydration.

Designing menus around these groups helps ensure that students receive balanced nutrition to support learning throughout the school day.

CULTURAL INCLUSION

With Aotearoa’s rich cultural diversity, school menus should reflect different food traditions. Including ingredients familiar to Māori, Pasifika, Asian and Middle Eastern communities ensures that all students feel represented.

For example, kumara, seafood, or puha can honour Māori traditions, while rice dishes may appeal to Asian students. Offering halal, vegetarian or allergen-friendly options further ensures inclusivity. Involving whānau and students in menu development helps create menus that reflect community values and preferences.

Managing Allergies & Dietary Needs

With increasing food allergies and intolerances, schools need clear protocols. These include:

Displaying full ingredient lists

• Training staff on allergy response

• Providing safe alternatives for common allergens

• Maintaining open communication with parents

An inclusive approach ensures that all students can enjoy school meals safely.

AFFORDABILITY AND ACCESSIBILITY

Cost is an important factor for schools and families. Healthy options should be accessible for all students. Strategies include:

• Using seasonal, local produce

• Reducing reliance on processed foods

• Partnering with local growers or suppliers

• Simplifying menus with whole food recipes

• Minimising food waste through portion control

Programmes like Ka Ora, Ka Ako, the Healthy School Lunches Programme, help schools offer nutritious, free lunches to many students, reducing food insecurity and promoting equity.

STUDENT ENGAGEMENT

Involving students fosters ownership and enthusiasm. Schools can run taste tests, establish student food councils, or integrate food education into health, science and technology lessons. School gardens can also supply herbs and produce, giving students a connection to where their food comes from.

When students help shape the menu, they are more willing to try new foods and develop lifelong healthy habits.

SUPPORTING STAFF

Food preparation staff and volunteers benefit from clear nutrition guidelines and training on food safety. Resources from the Ministry of Health and local health boards provide practical support. Regular staff collaboration helps ensure consistent messaging about healthy eating throughout the school year.

Creating balanced school lunches is more than nutrition. It is an investment in student wellbeing, engagement and lifelong health.

With careful planning and community involvement, New Zealand schools can foster food environments that nourish tamariki and support their success.

School Fuel: Fresh Update For Subway New Zealand School Lunch Programme

Subway New Zealand is on a mission to provide a range of nourishing options that tick all the boxes and fuel hungry minds. Introducing Subway School Fuel – a fresh School Lunch programme, available across New Zealand now.

Subway School Fuel does more than fill lunch boxes, with the programme benefiting both the students who receive a tasty, fulfilling meal, and their parents who can rest easy in the knowledge that their kids are getting a satisfying lunch that also delivers on value.

Made fresh daily by your local Subway restaurant, these tasty lunches are packed with nourishing ingredients to keep students fueled until the final bell.

Subway has been providing nourishing lunch options to Kiwi schools for many years, and in 2024 alone, more than 100,400 orders were placed online by 112 schools.

Now, the programme has had a fresh update, with new proteins, sauces and sides on the menu and a refreshed website to make tasty, freshly made school lunches easier than ever to arrange.

Managing Director of Subway Australia and New Zealand, Shane Bracken, said that where children need freshly made, nourishing lunch options that are easy for their parents and schools to organise, Subway is here to help.

“Providing nourishing food options with the added element of convenience is at the heart of our mission at Subway. Our school lunch programme has been running successfully in New Zealand for many years with our approved range of delicious and affordable subs and wraps for kids,” said Bracken.

“The refreshed School Fuel menu allows us to offer an even broader selection of meats, salads and freshly baked bread, going beyond traditional packed lunches to offer meals that satisfy students, support teachers and give parents peace of mind.”

“Our healthier options speak for themselves, and through our deep connection with local communities and our dedicated

Providing nourishing food options with the added element of convenience is at the heart of our mission at Subway. Our school lunch programme has been running successfully in New Zealand for many years with our approved range of delicious and affordable subs and wraps for kids,

network of franchisees, we will continue to be available to support parents and schools where they need us.”

Donna Ellery, Principal at Mt Pleasant School, Christchurch, added that Subway offers an easy ordering system for busy parents, and the children run over eagerly for their delicious lunch.

“We have been offering Subway for so long, we can’t remember a time without it.”

“A balanced and nourishing lunch is essential for maintaining energy and focus throughout the day, which is why we love offering Subway as a lunch option for our tamariki every Thursday.”

To find out more and sign up, visit the Subway School Fuel website and download your kit today.

For nutritional information, please head to the Subway New Zealand website.

Digital Nutrition Education in Kiwi Classrooms

New Zealand’s tamariki are embarking on a gamified learning experience to Foodtopia, thanks to a newly launched digital education programme from Food for Thought.

Designed for Year 5 and 6 students, the new online platform helps tamariki make informed, healthy food choices by bringing the popular Food for Thought programme to every primary school in New Zealand.

The new programme uses interactive storytelling and real-world activities to teach tamariki about healthy eating. Students explore nutrition concepts as they journey across animated food group islands, complete supermarket shopping challenges, identify a rainbow of fruit and vegetables, and learn how to calculate sugar content in drinks.

“Learning about nutrition at an early age is important because it helps instil healthy behaviours tamariki can carry through life, helping set them up for healthier futures,” said Sandy Botterill, Head of Environmental Social Governance, Foodstuffs NZ.

“We want to be able to reach as many schools as possible with our programme, and by having a digital offering, it truly opens it up to all primary schools. We sought input from students and teachers while developing the programme to ensure it was something they could easily use in the classroom, with minimal prep and maximum impact.”

We want to be able to reach as many schools as possible with our programme, and by having a digital offering, it truly opens it up to all primary schools. We sought input from students and teachers while developing the programme to ensure it was something they could easily use in the classroom, with minimal prep and maximum impact.

The result is a free, curriculum-aligned programme with everything in one place: animated content, lesson plans, teacher guidance, and student activities.

Since 2007, more than 265,000 tamariki have been helped to make healthier food choices thanks to the free nutrition education programme Food for Thought.

Funded from inception by the Foodstuffs co-operatives and delivered in partnership with the Heart Foundation, the Food for Thought programme involves a qualified nutritionist visiting Year 5 and 6 classrooms and taking pupils to their local PAK’nSAVE, New World or Four Square to put healthy eating principles into practice.

With the introduction of Nutrition Quest, the Food for Thought Programme can be brought to all primary schools in Aotearoa.

“Food has such a big impact on our health, so we’re really invested in helping support students to develop lifelong skills around food and food literacy so they’re able to make great choices throughout their lives – and it’ll have a wonderful effect on their heart health long term,” said Justine Munro, Head of Prevention at the Heart Foundation.

“This is about reaching more schools and more students and increasing the food literacy across the motu.”

Arahoe School in New Lynn, Auckland, was one of the first to use the digital programme, and Deputy Principal Vanessa Jansz said it has been a hit in the classroom.

“Using Nutrition Quest is useful for the children because they’re learning through gamification and most of our kids are really engaged when they learn through games,” she said.

“The children easily picked up what they were supposed to do because of the colour and the content, it was so engaging for them. The instructions are easy to understand and they’re learning on the go and sharing it with their peers, but also with their families.”

The Food for Thought team is now inviting primary schools nationwide to access the resource and bring nutrition learning to life in their classrooms.

Growing Through Play: How Playgroups Support Every

Area of Development

Spend just one morning at a community playgroup. You’ll see something special unfolding: children exploring their world, hearing and then trying new words, testing out and mastering new skills, learning to take turns and learning to wait (small children spend a lot of time waiting), negotiating with peers and working out the toddler mantra – “if it’s mine, it’s mine, if it’s yours it’s mine” and realising this possibly isn’t working out that well.

BY PATRICIA O’DONOVAN, CEO, PLAYGROUP AUSTRALIA

Research shows that regular playgroup participation is associated with stronger outcomes across all five key areas of early development. What makes playgroups so effective is that learning happens in the most natural way: through play, relationships, and real-world interactions.

At the same time, you’ll see parents and carers connecting, sharing stories, offering support, and building community. It’s simple, but powerful. A physical social network at work within the community.

Playgroups may appear informal, even a little chaotic at times, but what’s happening is foundational. In an era where many families are raising children without the day-to-day support of extended networks, playgroups are one of the few remaining places where community happens naturally.

They are welcoming, grassroots spaces where both children and adults learn, grow, and belong. And increasingly, the evidence is showing us that what happens in playgroups has a lasting impact.

We know the first five years are critical. Early childhood is when the foundations for trust, learning, wellbeing, and social participation are laid. Children’s experiences during this time, especially their interactions with caregivers and peers, shape their future in profound ways.

But increasingly, we are seeing cracks in the system: rising rates of developmental vulnerability, particularly in the areas of social competence and emotional maturity.

These aren’t just abstract statistics. They reflect what many families are facing: greater isolation, more stress, and fewer informal supports. For many, the village that once helped raise children and created the conditions for optimal childhood outcomes is now out of reach.

THIS IS WHERE PLAYGROUPS COME IN

Research shows that regular playgroup participation is associated with stronger outcomes across all five key areas of early development. What makes playgroups so effective is that learning happens in the most natural way: through play, relationships, and real-world interactions.

• Physical development happens as children run, climb, paint, dig, and build. These activities help develop gross and fine motor skills, coordination, and physical confidence.

• Social development emerges as children interact with others their own age. They learn to share, take turns, negotiate, and resolve small conflicts, laying the groundwork for empathy, inclusion, and positive relationships.

• Emotional development is supported by the safe, consistent rhythm of the playgroup. Children begin to recognise and manage their feelings, and with trusted adults nearby, they build resilience and self-confidence.

• Language development is fostered through everyday rich interactions with adults and conversations with other children. Songs, stories, and imaginative play build vocabulary, comprehension, and communication skills.

• Cognitive development unfolds through exploration and playbased learning. Whether they’re sorting, stacking, role-playing, or problem-solving, children are developing memory, attention, creativity, and early numeracy and literacy skills.

Crucially, playgroups support more than just children. They are a lifeline for parents and carers.

Relationships Matter, a report by RMIT, confirmed what many in the playgroup sector have long known: playgroups reduce isolation and strengthen parenting confidence.

They provide a space where families can connect, share experiences, and learn from one another. You can walk into a playgroup feeling unsure or overwhelmed and find someone who simply says, “Yes, I’ve been there too.” That sense of solidarity can make all the difference.

What makes playgroup so effective is that it doesn’t feel like a formal service. There are no applications to complete, no criteria to meet. There’s no stigma, no pressure.

It’s just families coming together: some leading, some learning, all contributing. Support happens organically, relationships are built naturally, and the benefits ripple outward, strengthening not just individual families but whole communities.

Of course, a playgroup isn’t a silver bullet. But it is a low-cost, high-impact way to support families in the early years, when support matters most.

If we’re serious about improving outcomes for young children, we need to value the spaces where real, everyday early learning takes place. We need to recognise the importance of communityled, relationship-rich environments like playgroups, not as a niceto-have, but as a vital part of the early childhood system.

While the first five years set the foundation for a child’s life, it’s the community that surrounds them that helps them thrive.

Supporting Online Safety In Schools

We know educators play a vital role in helping develop the online safety skills of tamariki.

The Department of Internal Affairs’ Keep It Real Online website offers information and resources to help equip schools and students with the necessary tools to safely and effectively navigate the internet.

Recent research paints a clear picture of the challenges young people are facing online. Nearly half of young Kiwis have chatted online with someone they’ve never met in real life.

One in five New Zealanders face online bullying each year. And with pornography increasingly becoming a source of sex education, the risks and impacts can extend beyond the screen.

Being aware of these risks allows us to better prepare our youth for safer, more positive experiences as they take on increased independence, both online and offline.

WHAT OUR INVESTIGATORS ARE SEEING

Current trends show a concerning rise in young people sharing intimate images of themselves online, with many of these images later found in offender networks. In many cases, they are groomed into believing they are sending these images to someone their own age, unaware of the risks involved.

Often, groomers will start conversations on platforms which young people frequent, such as Instagram, Discord, Roblox, Minecraft or Twitch.

Once trust is gained, they will encourage the conversation to move to another direct messaging platform that may be less known or not as easily visible to others.

Investigators are also seeing the rise of violent online groups, including those involved in sextortion – where members, often teens and young adults, use predatory tactics to target and entice other young people into recording and sharing self-harm and sexually explicit acts which are then used to extort the victim into providing more imagery to be distributed online and amongst other members.

Members can also encourage victims to commit other offences including intentional damage of property e.g. spray painting group names on cars and buildings, and even animal abuse.

The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been rapid, and our investigators have seen that AI generated child sexual abuse material is becoming easier to generate and more realistic, making it harder for them to determine whether the child featured is real or AI generated.

Sometimes it could be a mixture of real and fake, predators can use AI to “nudify” innocent images of children turning it into child sexual abuse material that is available across the web.

SETTING UP YOUR SCHOOL

Creating a safe and supportive online environment starts with a whole-of- school approach. Keep It Real Online encourages schools to integrate digital safety into everyday learning and culture.

This means ensuring staff are equipped with relevant and up-todate knowledge, students are taught online responsibility from an early age, and whānau are engaged in conversations about online wellbeing.

A key part of this approach is the implementation of clear, consistent policies – such as a child protection policy and code of conduct –that guide behaviour and response across the school community.

SUPPORTING STUDENTS

Keep It Real Online has a comprehensive range of information, videos, and teacher guides designed to support students by helping schools identify, respond to, and prevent the various forms of online harm, including:

• Online bullying

• Child safeguarding

• Sextortion

• Violent extremism

• Spam and scams

• Child sexual exploitation

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Supporting students also means empowering them to take an active role in online safety. Encouraging peer support, leadership roles, and student-led campaigns can help build a culture of resilience, responsibility and respect.

By utilising the resources available, educators can play a pivotal role in fostering a safe and supportive environment for their students. Together, we can ensure that tamariki are well-equipped to navigate the digital world with confidence and care.

AI Friends & Cyberbullying on the Digital Playground

Norton released its 2025 Norton Cyber Safety Insights Report: Connected Kids, offering a look at the Cyber Safety challenges parents of school-aged children face.

As children in New Zealand are going digital at an increasingly early age, with many receiving their first phone by age 12, parents are navigating uncharted territory.

The report highlighted the urgent need to equip Kiwi families with resources to keep kids safe in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

“Childhood today is radically different, and online activities blend into real life shockingly fast. Parents now play a frontline role in keeping their families safe as digital life starts earlier and earlier,” said Mark Gorrie, Norton Managing Director APAC and father of two.

“Our study reveals that on average, Kiwi adults today were 24 years old when they got their first mobile phone. But the

generational gap is striking. Gen Z got theirs at just 14, Millennials at 16, Gen X at 26, and Boomers at 41. Children of parents in this study are getting their first mobile even earlier, with an average age of 12. With devices landing in kids’ hands younger than ever, parents need both more support and a greater commitment to navigating the realities of raising digitally connected kids.”

FROM OFFLINE TO CYBER BULLYING

While schoolyard bullying is nothing new, in 2025, it doesn’t stop when the school bell rings. According to the report, nearly half of parents of cyberbullying victims say the perpetrator was a classmate or peer.

As AI-powered tools and AI companions become more common, parents face a bigger task than they may realise. Our study shows that around one in three Kiwi parents already take the right approach by regularly checking their child’s devices –reviewing app usage, settings, and installed apps.

Parents say this trolling and harassment spans numerous platforms. Visual-first social media platforms lead the charge, with Snapchat and Instagram, followed by Facebook and TikTok.

But not all cyberbullying is pervasive beyond social media. One in four parents says their child has been bullied via text messages.

Strikingly, almost half of Kiwi parents say they knew their child was being cyberbullied before their child confided in them. This suggests many parents are picking up on warning signs, but awareness alone isn’t enough.

Over a quarter of parents admit they still haven’t spoken with their children about staying safe online, leaving them underprepared when risks escalate.

Managing screen time remains a constant struggle. Although nearly three-quarters of Kiwi parents try to enforce limits, techsavvy kids often find ways around them.

Parents also report catching their children engaging in risky online behaviours – from staying up late on devices (31 percent) to accessing blocked sites (10 percent), sharing private information with strangers (10 percent), watching explicit content (9 percent), or even cyberbullying others (4 percent).

MAKING AI FRIENDS

Another crucial concern addressed in the report is the growing role of AI in children’s digital lives. For some children, AI isn’t just a tool anymore; it’s becoming a companion. Almost a quarter of Kiwi parents say their children use AI for companionship and emotional support.

Concerns about AI’s unintended effects remain high, with 34 percent saying AI isn’t beneficial for children’s learning and creativity. However, just as the gap in online safety discussions persists, conversations about AI risks aren’t happening enough at home. Only 41 percent of Kiwi parents say they’ve talked to their kids about AI dangers like deepfakes and misinformation.

“As AI-powered tools and AI companions become more common, parents face a bigger task than they may realise. Our study shows that around one in three Kiwi parents already take the right approach by regularly checking their child’s devices – reviewing app usage, settings, and installed apps. It’s a habit more Kiwi families should adopt to help guide children safely in the digital world.”

5 Tips to Help Keep Kids Safer in a Connected World

Norton recommends the following steps to help create a safer and more supportive digital experience for kids:

• Start the Conversation Early Don’t wait until there’s a problem – talk to your children about online behaviour, safety, and kindness from the moment they start using devices.

• Use Parental Control Tools Thoughtfully Utilise the built-in device settings and trusted parental control tools to establish screen time limits, block inappropriate content, and monitor online activity. Norton solutions, such as Norton Family with features like School Time, can help parents create healthy digital boundaries while fostering trust and transparency.

• Teach Kids to Recognise Red Flags Help children understand the signs of cyberbullying, scams, AI manipulation, or predatory behaviour, and empower them to speak up if something feels off.

• Model Healthy Tech Use Kids mirror adult behaviour. Set a positive example by putting devices down during family time, managing your own screen use, and showing how to engage responsibly online.

• Stay Involved, Stay Curious Regularly check in with your child about what they’re doing online. Ask questions, explore apps together, and keep learning about new trends, whether it’s AI chatbots or the latest social media platform.

As children engage with technology earlier and more frequently, parents need to remain proactive, informed, and involved.

Pool Safety: Why Resurfacing & Renovation Matter

Safe pools mean confident swimmers and fewer risks. Swimming pools are essential assets in many New Zealand schools, supporting water safety education, student wellbeing, and physical activity. However, as concrete pools age, surface deterioration and structural issues can compromise their safety, hygiene and usability.

WHY SCHOOLS SHOULD RESURFACE THEIR POOLS

• Safety and Student Protection

A worn pool surface with cracks or sharp edges can lead to injuries, especially for younger swimmers. Resurfacing restores a smooth, slip-resistant finish that helps prevent accidents and provides a safer environment for students and staff.

• Hygiene and Water Quality

Deteriorating concrete can harbour bacteria, fungi, and algae, compromising water quality and hygiene. Resurfacing seals these areas, supporting clearer water, reducing the need for chemicals, and improving overall pool cleanliness.

• Longevity and Reduced Maintenance

By sealing leaks and repairing damage, resurfacing protects the pool’s underlying structure. This helps avoid significant repair costs, reduces the need for constant upkeep, and ensures smoother, more manageable maintenance routines.

• Visual Appeal and Usability

A freshly resurfaced pool looks clean, well-cared-for, and inviting. This benefits school pride and enhances the experience for both students and the broader community during events, sports days or public access periods.

POOL RENOVATION AND RESURFACING WITH WATCHMAN POOLS

Based in Auckland, Watchman Pools is a trusted name in concrete pool construction and renovation. With over 30 years of experience, they have built and restored hundreds of high-quality swimming pools throughout the region.

Watchman Pools is a Member of the Master Pool Builders Association and offers a full range of services from resurfacing and safety restoration to complete pool renovation and landscaping.

Key Services Include:

• Pool resurfacing for safety, waterproofing and longevity

• Renovation of older concrete pools to modern standards

• Structural repairs and leak prevention

• Spa and indoor pool design Pool area landscaping to enhance functionality and appeal

Whether a school is looking to address ageing infrastructure or modernise a decades-old pool, Watchman Pools offers tailored solutions that fit budget, timeline and compliance needs. Their experienced team understands the practical demands of school settings and works to minimise disruption during construction or renovation.

To learn more about their work with New Zealand schools and communities, visit watchmanpools.co.nz

Investing in resurfacing or renovation is not just about appearances. It is about providing a safe and supportive environment where students can learn life-saving water skills, participate in physical education, and enjoy being active outdoors.

Bringing Animal Welfare to Kiwi Classrooms

SPCA’s Instructional Reader collection consists of 24 animal welfare-themed educational books.

Every primary and intermediate school in New Zealand has been gifted six copies of each title. Māori medium schools have been gifted te reo Māori versions.

EACH SERIES FOCUSES ON A DIFFERENT THEME:

• The Companion Animals and Farmed Animals series is based on real-life SPCA animal rescues and contains messages about animal care, animal welfare, and tips for families on how to be responsible animal guardians.

• Animals in the Wild is all about children taking positive action to help protect animals and their environments in kind and compassionate ways.

• Responsible Animal Guardianship (ownership) explores a number of key animal welfare topics, such as animal abandonment and adoption.

The SPCA’s Education Team partnered with education publishers, Sunshine Books, to co-write and publish readers at a level aligned with the Ministry of Education’s colour wheel, allowing schools to integrate them seamlessly into their reading resource collections and classroom literacy programmes.

The objective of SPCA’s Instructional Readers is to teach core animal care and wellbeing lessons through engaging, emotive and thought-provoking stories while increasing children’s reading mileage and supporting the development of their reading skills and strategies.

With a website link located within each book, children and their families are directed to the relevant sections of SPCA Kids’ Portal to extend their learning of the animal welfare concepts introduced in the stories.

The readers can also bring school, home and SPCA together, which helps to ensure knowledge gains are reinforced, but it is also

The objective of SPCA’s Instructional Readers is to teach core animal care and wellbeing lessons through engaging, emotive and thought-provoking stories while increasing children’s reading mileage and supporting the development of their reading skills and strategies.

important within the family context to eliminate any confusion around animal needs and welfare, in a subtle, positive and unjudgmental way. The readers are available in five languages, and in accessible formats for learners who are blind or have low vision. English and Māori hard copies have been distributed free to every New Zealand primary school, while online versions of all language editions are available via our Teachers’ Portal.

Supporting teaching notes and post-reading learning activities for each reader are also freely available to teachers through our Teachers’ Portal, in both English and Māori. Our teaching notes suggest ways teachers can use the texts in instructional reading settings to support the learning needs of their children.

While our post-reading learning activities help to extend and consolidate children’s understanding of selected key animal care concepts, increase their empathy for the animal characters within the stories, and of course support the development of their reading skills and strategies.

SPCA’s instructional readers can be purchased via SPCA’s Online Op Shop.

Lovevery Empowers New Generation of Confident Readers

Lovevery has launched The Reading Skill Set, a phonicsbased program that motivates children to read through play-based elements.

The Reading Skill Set offers the first modern, screen-free reading program that guides children from learning letter sounds to reading chapter books using a skill-by-skill approach.

Children begin by learning concepts through interactive games and then build confidence with books that feature the skills learned in the games.

The Reading Skill Set offers the first modern, screen-free reading program that guides a child from letter sounds to chapter books using a skill-by-skill approach.

Children begin by learning concepts through interactive games and then build confidence with books that feature the skills learned in the games.

Reading success in early childhood has reached a crucial point. According to the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) results, approximately one in three Australian primary and secondary students cannot read proficiently.

To address this growing gap, Lovevery has introduced The Reading Skill Set — the first modern, screen-free reading program that makes reading fun.

Backed by two years of research and collaboration with literacy experts, The Reading Skill Set combines evidence-based phonics instruction with sensory-rich games to guide children from learning letter sounds to reading chapter books. The program uses a step-by-step, skill-building approach that makes learning to read engaging, motivating, and confidence-building.

“Learning to read is one of the biggest milestones in a child’s life, but for many, it can also be a struggle.”

“Research shows that a child’s mindset and confidence during the process play a key role in their success. When children start to doubt themselves, they often become resistant, which can hinder skill development and reduce their enjoyment of reading,” said Jessica Rolph, Lovevery Cofounder and CEO.

“We created The Reading Skill Set to change that. By blending

Research shows that a child’s mindset and confidence during the process play a key role in their success. When children start to doubt themselves, they often become resistant, which can hinder skill development and reduce their enjoyment of reading,

the science of reading with the joy of play, we help children stay motivated, engaged, and confident every step of the way.”

Reading can be challenging, and not every approach is effective. The Reading Skill Set offers a proven solution to boost both skills and self-confidence.

In a six-week, at-home study, 98 percent of children improved their reading test scores by an average rate of 68 per cent. Just 20 minutes a day made a meaningful difference, 98 percent of parents said their children felt more confident and excited about reading after using the program.

“Parents want to help, but they’re often unsure where to begin,” said Roderick Morris, Lovevery Co-founder and President.

“The program meets families where they are with hands-on, play-based tools that make learning to read both approachable and exciting.”

Each part of The Reading Skill Set includes a Lovevery Play Guide that provides parents and caregivers with everything they need to know to support their child through the program—no prior expertise required.

The Reading Skill Set is a thoughtfully sequenced program that supports children at every stage of their reading journey:

• Part 1: Sounds to Reading (typically for 3–5-yearolds) In this motivating introduction to reading, children learn the most common sound of each letter and how to break up words into sounds. Includes 9 games and 7 books.

• Part 2: Words to Books (typically for 4–6-yearolds) Children learn to blend words with more speed and accuracy, and build comprehension skills through books and fun storytelling games. Includes 7 games and 13 books.

Part 3: Advanced Rules to Chapter Books (typically for 5–7-year-olds) Children learn more advanced rules, like vowel pairs, final ‘e’, r-controlled vowels, prefixes, and suffixes. Ultimately, they’ll progress to reading chapter books independently. Includes four games and 27 books.

Spy Club: Mission HQ for Curious Young Minds

Spy Club Mission HQ is your hub for all things spy-related – and it’s packed with engaging resources to spark curiosity, problem-solving and teamwork in children.

With free printable activities, interactive storytelling and clever puzzles, Spy Club is designed to get students thinking like detectives, collaborating as a team, and playfully applying real-world skills.

It’s the perfect resource for educators, parents and community groups looking to combine fun with learning.

FREE SPY CLUB ACTIVITIES TO DOWNLOAD

At HQ, you’ll find a growing library of resources for your “agents” to use in the classroom or at home. Current downloads include:

• Cut-Out Spy Disguise: Create a master of disguise and practise the art of observation.

• Spy Profile Character Sheet: Build your agent’s backstory and think critically about their strengths.

• Classroom Crime Scene: Set up a simple investigation and challenge students to gather evidence, analyse clues and solve the case.

These activities encourage role-playing, creativity, and problemsolving, ideal for team-building days, rainy lunchtimes, or afterschool programmes.

WHAT IS SPY CLUB?

If your students love a good mystery, they’ll enjoy Spy Club –Mission: Bring Back Boyd, an interactive audio adventure where kids step into the role of trainee agents.

Jane, Ollie, Rohan and Zora are regular kids at Fleming High –until their geography teacher and Spy Club leader, Mr. Boyd, goes missing.

Now it’s up to Spy Club members, and your agents-in-training, to uncover the truth.

Using an audio player and a top-secret Spy Club Pack filled with print clues and puzzles, children must decode messages, crack codes, and piece together the mystery.

This interactive format sharpens listening skills, logic and concentration, making it a fantastic resource for school or home learning.

HOW IT WORKS

• Listen carefully to the audio story and follow the clues.

• Use the print materials and visual prompts to solve each challenge.

• Work individually or as a team to complete the mission and bring back Mr. Boyd.

TIP: Teachers and parents can use the activities for group problem-solving challenges or as part of a literacy and critical thinking programme.

SPY

CLUB FOR SCHOOLS AND FAMILIES

Spy Club is more than just a game. It develops valuable skills such as teamwork, logical thinking, and creative problem solving. It’s ideal for:

• School enrichment days

• Library and reading programmes

• After-school clubs or holiday workshops

• Family learning at home

READY TO JOIN THE MISSION?

Explore Spy Club HQ now for free resources, inspiration and tips to support your agents in the field. Whether you’re a teacher, parent or youth leader, this is your chance to help students uncover their inner detective and solve a thrilling mystery together.

BY KATHY GARRETT, GENERAL MANAGER, EMPOWERMENT TRUST

Building Safer Relations

Imagine this: Aotearoa New Zealand, where every single person, from tamariki to kaumātua, feels safe to live, play, learn, and work in communities free from harm and violence.

Sounds amazing, right? Well, that’s the vision we’re working towards! Empowerment Trust New Zealand, we believe real change begins with real skills.

We’re here to support whānau, schools, and communities across the motu to build healthy relationships through fun, handson, skills-based learning that’s rooted in respect, safety and empowerment.

Founded by changemakers Cornelia Baumgartner and Martin Hartman, the Empowerment Trust is proud to be part of the Kidpower International whānau – a global organisation that’s empowered millions in 20 countries across six continents since 1989.

Cornelia, who is one of our current board members and former Centre Director (1998–2016), has been a pioneer in this space. She helped lead national pilots like:

• Confident Kids with NZ Police Youth Education Services

• Healthy Relationships resources for people with intellectual disabilities

• The Teenpower Relationship Safety Project

Since 1993, we’ve trained thousands of educators, social workers, police officers, parents, rangatahi, and community leaders. Our workshops and resources are in demand everywhere – from kura and kōhanga reo, to workplaces, to Parliament!

Our team of 12 passionate facilitators travel nationwide to deliver

dynamic, interactive workshops that are as fun as they are powerful.

We work with schools, clubs, workplaces, tertiary institutions, and community groups of all sizes.

Our programmes are for everyone aged 4 to 100 – truly! They’re all about creating a shared language and practical tools to set boundaries, resolve conflict and stay safe.

Some of Our Most Popular Topics Include:

• Boundary Setting

• Online Safety

• Peer Safety & Bullying Prevention

• Out & About Safety

• How to Ask for Help

Our Mission is to create a safer Aotearoa by empowering communities with skills that last a lifetime. Because when people know how to protect themselves and others, harm is reduced, resilience is built, and mana is upheld.

Got pātai (questions)? Keen to bring Empowerment Trust into your space? Let’s kōrero – we’d love to connect! More questions? Talk to us.

Night at Auckland Museum: Superstars

Unleash Your Inner Superstar at Auckland Museum! Night at the Auckland Museum is back for the school holidays, offering some fabulous family fun.

Ever dreamed of lighting up the stage or screen? Leading your team to victory or making a world-changing discovery?

Don’t miss your chance to find out what it takes to become a true living legend at Night at Auckland Museum: Superstars. This fun family event transforms the Museum into an interactive hall of fame where visitors can explore the galleries after dark and meet a dazzling cast of shining stars ready to share their secrets.

Throughout the evening, visitors can encounter many colourful characters who will teach them the secrets of becoming a legend with hands-on games and activities.

Learn to command the spotlight from stars of the silent screen, discover your passion with science geek Hypatia Hibble or unearth self-promotion tips from some old hands – Egyptian pharaohs! Whether you’re a budding performer, brilliant brainiac, future fashionista, or a sporting legend in the making, Superstars could be what it takes to unlock your potential.

But the excitement doesn’t stop there! Head to the Auditorium to catch Recipe for Success, a hilarious audience participation show where ‘celebrity’ chefs attempt to cook their way to the top. Will they find the secret ingredients? You’ll have to see for yourself!

Grab your torch and get ready to shine with the stars! With a ton of fun, interactive activities designed for the whole family, Night at Auckland Museum: Superstars is your night to step up, try out, and discover your inner superstar.

Winter School Holidays

Sat 5 Jul (Public Dress Rehearsal)

Sun 6, Mon 7, Wed 9, Thu 10, Fri 11, Sat 12 Jul

Spring School Holidays

Wed 24 Sep (Public Dress Rehearsal)

Thu 25, Fri 26, Sat 27,

Mon 29 Sep, Wed 1, Thu 2 Oct

6.30 PM – 9 PM, Doors Open 5.30 PM

Members Receive 10% Discount

Recommended age is 6-12. Ages 3 years and under are free.

The Past is Closer Than you Think – Dinosaur Discovery Track

Discover the wonderful and mysterious world of dinosaurs. Travel back in time on Auckland Zoo’s Dinosaur Discovery Track to experience some awe-inspiring creatures that lived up to 250 million years ago.

Over the seven months that our Dinosaur Discovery Track is here, we hope that we inspire new audiences about not just extinct species, but to also get them excited and motivated about all those wildlife species that are still with us, and now desperately need all our help to stop them going the way of the dinosaurs and disappearing

forever.

This immersive educational experience in the Zoo’s former elephant habitat features 25 large-scale animatronic dinosaurs made by The Dinosaur Company, the world’s leading dinosaur creators.

These spectacular replicas move and roar (some even spit water) and represent the rich diversity of life from the planet’s intriguing Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods of the Mesozoic Era between 252 and 66 million years ago.

Among the 19 dinosaur species visitors can encounter are the fabulously feathered Utahraptor (with babies), the water-loving Baryonyx, Tyrannosaurus (T-Rex), and the rhinoceros-like Pachyrhinosaurus.

There is also a special Dinosaur Pass Membership for dinosaur lovers, available until June 30th, 2025, and valid for six months from the day of purchase.

Visitors exploring the Track can pretend to be palaeontologists and participate in fossil digs. Alternatively, they can scan QR codes on their phones for dinosaur audio guides and augmented reality experiences.

There will also be Dinosaur Rangers roaming the Track to chat with and free daily talks by a dinosaur keeper exploring dinosaur evolution, extinction, and how the dinosaurs’ legacy lives on.

Right outside the Dinosaur Discovery Track, visitors can enjoy dino-themed kai, coffee, burgers and more.

“Although most dinosaurs went extinct 65 million years ago, before the first humans evolved, they have this incredible ability to intrigue and fascinate us about animals and epic wildlife,” said Auckland Zoo director Kevin Buley.

“For many of us – including me – dinosaurs are a potent gateway drug that leads to a lifelong connection to nature and to conservation.”

“Over the seven months that our Dinosaur Discovery Track is here, we hope that we inspire new audiences about not just extinct species, but to also get them excited and motivated about all those wildlife species that are still with us, and now desperately need all our help to stop them going the way of the dinosaurs and disappearing forever.”

Dinosaur Discovery Track Details

• Wednesday 2 April until Friday 31 October 2025

• Open daily from 10 am – 4 pm

• Located in the former elephant habitat on the Africa Safari Track

• Entry is included with an Auckland Zoo general admission ticket or an Auckland Zoo Membership

The Kennedys at Cape Cod, 1944

by Leigh Straw

Australian scholar Leigh Sales tells the story of the Kennedy family during the summer of 1944, leading up to the death of Joe Jr that became a turning point for a family on the cusp of political greatness.

Hairy Maclary and Friends: Little Learning Library

by Lynley Dodd

Inspire a lifetime love of learning with rascally Hairy Maclary and his rollicking gang with classic stories ABC, 123, Colours and Opposites!

The Dangerous Pet Lover’s Guide to Dragons

by Lindsay Hirst

What would it be like to have a dragon as a pet? Find out in this hilarious picture book and pet manual!

Sammy Feels Shy

by Tom Percival

Sammy LOVES having fun! But he doesn’t love talking in front of other people. A book about tackling shyness, from the bestselling creator of the Big Bright Feelings series

The Rest is History Returns

by Dominic Sandbrook & Tom Holland

The second book from the creators of the smash-hit number 1 podcast takes us on a dizzying A–Z through the past.

The Golden Road

by William Dalrymple

Bestselling historian William Dalrymple reinstates India as the great superpower of Ancient Asia.

Pūkeko Who-keko?

by Toby Morris

Watch out for cartoonist Toby Morris’s flying dad jokes in this delightful visual and verbal play on words that rhyme with pūkeko!

Bird of the Year

by Forest and Bird

A richly illustrated celebration of Aotearoa’s native birds and the efforts we all make to protect them.

by David Hill

The Māori-language edition of Mother of the Nation, translated by Stacey Morrison.

Mother of the Nation: Whina Cooper by

David Hill

Meet Dame Whina Cooper, the kuia who championed Māori rights and women’s rights and led a famous hīkoi for positive change.

Glorious Rivals

by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

The stakes get higher, the game gets twistier, and everything heats up in this newest instalment in Jennifer Lynn Barnes’ TikTok sensation Inheritance Games Saga.

The Girl with the Suitcase

by Lesley Pearse

It’s London 1941, when Mary meets a glamorous stranger named Elizabeth she realises their lives couldn’t be more different.

Te Whaea o te Motu

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