Children join animal friends for fun day

The children of Chief Families Commissioner Belinda Milnes were among hundreds celebrating Children's Day at Wairarapa SPCA yesterday.

Ms Milnes said the children's day was an event that helped develop lasting memories and relationships and she hoped families would commit to doing things regularly.

There were laughing children running at the event from one activity to another between having a cuddle or two with the animals on site - and everyone seemed to be enjoying the day.

The day was supposed to kick off at 11am but centre manager Lloyd Warren said that when he arrived the place was packed with people already enjoying the fun before things were set up.

A bouncy castle and large blow-up slide had queues of youngsters awaiting a turn, and dozens more lined up for sausages, drinks and fora balloon animal to be made.

Smaller children made bubbles or ate fresh fruit provided, while others checked out the animals inside.

Some children made a bee-line to pat a goat tied up to Basil the parrot's cage, while others just enjoyed the atmosphere.

Mr Warren said it was great to see so many at the event.

"It's just awesome to see all the kids here.

"It is extremely important we have days like this, because a core part of our programme is education.

"If we start with children, then when they will grow up they will be people with empathy for animals. That's what we want," he said.

Masterton mum Jessica Laftey said it was a fun family day out.

"It's just great. We need to have more days and activities like this for the little kids."

Ms Milnes said creating family memories could include something simple like having a meal together, hosting a family movie or music night, or going for a moonlit walk.

"Do something special as a family that helps builds long-lasting bonds, such as starting a tradition your family can repeat every year as the kids grow older," she said.

"In my family we already have a few special rituals like a secret handshake and family hugs that even include the dog.

"All parents know that children grow up too fast and taking time to create special family memories can be something children remember for years."