One of the first students Poppy Roberts, 5, with principal Gen Fuller, mum Jess Roberts, dad Tom Roberts and brother Griff, 3. Photo / Zoe Hunter
Dozens of students are making history today as the first pupils to be welcomed on to the Taumata School grounds.
It is the first day for students, parents and teachers at Tauranga's newest school.
Principal Gen Fuller has welcomed the first students to their first day of school.
"Today we are making history," she said.
Fuller said the children had been involved right from the beginning from the first turning of soil to uncovering historical kumara pits to the first day of school.
"You, the children, are the last piece of the puzzle," she said.
Five-year-old Poppy Roberts was excited to put her blue and navy uniform on this morning, as one of the first students at Taumata School.
Her mum Jess Roberts said her daughter turned five in August, but the family wanted to wait until the new school opened before sending her to school.
The family moved to the area about six months ago and wanted to send their daughter to Taumata School after meeting the principal during open days last year.
"It is an amazing opportunity. She is so lucky to have this opportunity," Jess said.
The school caters for Years 1 to 6 pupils, while Years 7 and 8 will introduced in the next couple of years.
'The contribution they’ve made to ballet in this country ... has been immense.'