Photos by Caroline Manu Moli

The 143 government primary school students at Kolonga on Tongatapu were happy to receive school materials, reading books, sports gear donated by visiting students from Kohia Terrace School in Auckland.

The 14 New Zealand Year 6 students (aged 10-11) accompanied by Principal Alison Spence and Associate Principal Louis Heap, were welcomed on Wednesday with feasting and traditional performances, for the special event.

Mr Heap said they enquired with the school on essential needs for assistance and fundraised NZ$6,500.

This was used to build a school fence, buying a new laminating machine, laptop, stationeries as well as sports gear such as rugby jerseys and balls.

In addition, the students and their families donated reading books for students.

He said the group then had $2,198 pa’anga left, which was made out in a cheque and presented to the GPS Kolonga PTA.

"For the past three-years we've had a service and leadership trip to a Pacific Island for some of our Year 6 students. This is aimed for our students to learn about giving to a community of need, establishing connections with a Tongan school, spending time and learn about school life in Tonga while carrying out fundraising for a worthy cause, among others," he said.

“We have learnt about humble beginnings, the happiness in giving and gaining valuable insight into Tongan culture through the children and the wider community of Kolonga. The memories our students experience today will be with them forever."

Mr Heap said they had gone to Fiji previously and were keen to come to Tonga this year because they have students of Tongan origin in their Year 6, with two present - Talia Vea and Lipoi Tupou.

Each student held their own fundraising to pay for their travel expenses to Tonga, which included bake sales and other small activities.

Meanwhile, GPS Kolonga Principal Valenitaine Anga’aetau was thankful for the generous donation.

"These materials will greatly benefit all our students and we are just thankful."

Faka’osifono Valevale welcomed the visiting school to the event attended by the Kolonga community.