On March 10, 100 children from 15 North Shore Schools visited Long Bay Regional Park where they created sand sculptures in celebration of Seaweek and our marine environment.

The event aimed to develop an understanding of the important link between pollution, stormwater and water quality in our streams, lake and beaches.

The sand sculptures were judged in four age groups with themes including ‘outside drains drain to streams and the sea’ and ‘the sea provides sustenance and pleasure for all’. New Zealand yachtsman and environmentalist Mark Orams and Joe Allen from Team New Zealand helped judge the sculptures.

The overall winner was Albany Junior High School’s Harakeke team with the sculpture ‘Three Tiers’ – reflecting people’s role in creating pollution and the impact on the environment. Other first prize winners included teams from Verran School, St Mary’s School and Hato Petera College.

Albany Junior High School’s Harakeke team won $500 from Westpac Bank for ‘Three Tiers’