First day fun for students

Annabelle Old had her first day of school at Lynmore today - catching up with her and her mum, Nicky, about how her day went.

Hundreds of Rotorua students donned their uniforms and packed their lunches as a handful of the region's schools started back for Term One.

Yesterday was the first day schools across New Zealand could open for 2015.

Rotorua mum Nicky Old dropped off her daughter Annabelle, 5, for her first day at Lynmore Primary School.

Mrs Old said she felt a mix of emotions.

"I did feel a bit sad because she's my youngest and she's my baby but I was also excited for her.

"On Monday she was walking around the house in her Lynmore hat because she couldn't wait to start school."

Mrs Old has a son, Patrick, 7, in Year 4 at the school and said while she knew what to expect, it was different with Annabelle.

"She just seemed so little and more vulnerable than her brother, I can't believe she's ready for school."

Annabelle said she had a fun first day and liked her new teacher.

"My favourite part was dancing to Shake It Off. I made some new friends and Mrs Lamb is a nice teacher.

"I'm looking forward to going to school tomorrow because we do lots of fun activities. Patrick came and played with me at lunchtime."

Lynmore Primary School was one of seven schools around Rotorua which started back yesterday.

Five others will have their first day today. All schools in the region will be back by next Thursday.

Ministry of Education head of sector enablement and support Katrina Casey said there were plenty of things parents could do to support their children to achieve well at school.

"Ensure there's somewhere quiet for your child to do their homework and help them to establish good homework routines.

"Also stay in touch with what your child is learning and what is going on at school and listen to their school-related concerns should they have any."

Meanwhile police are urging motorists to take extra care on the road.

Police will be strictly enforcing speed limits around school zones and targeting behaviour that puts most vulnerable road users at risk.

Acting National Manager Road Policing, Inspector Pete McKennie said it was important all drivers were aware of their speed and kept a sharp look out for children, particularly as there would be more kids walking, cycling and bussing to school.

"Children can be unpredictable, so motorists need to be well prepared to stop safely in and around school zones. Returning to school is often an exciting time for kids as they rush to catch up with friends, so they can be easily distracted and may not be paying as much attention to their surroundings.

"Parents are encouraged to re-establish safe walking and biking habits with their kids, even if it is a well travelled route."