Warm weather, traditional attractions and in demand goods put under the hammer were the key to huge success at Halcombe School's gala.
The biennial gala was held in Halcombe on Saturday, April 23 and raised a record $21,500 in support of the rural Manawatū school and its 175 students.
School principal Sue Simpson was full of praise for the volunteers who contributed to the huge success.
"There are just so many people to thank but we truly appreciate everyone efforts to make this another wonderfully successful gala at Halcombe School," she said.
"This has well and truly beaten our previous gala record of $19,000 [set in 2015]."
Hundreds of local families, visitors and former students turned out to snag a bargain and relish in the attractions.
Housewares, books, puzzles, DVDs, puzzles, toys and clothing were just some goods filling the school hall, alongside bric-a-brac.
Time-honoured attractions such as the spinning wheel, dunk the teachers and students, magic carpet ride, 'barrel train' and face and nail painting were again on offer. New additions this year included two bouncy castles and a display of vintage and classic cars.
The event, which dates back to the 1990s and is a major fundraiser for the school, was again met with warm weather and its traditionally strong support by attendees.
On the hot Saturday, the cold drinks, ice-blocks, 'spiders' (ice cream sodas) and waffles for sale were well-received.
The two auctions gave local residents and visitors the chance to score some high-quality items and spend up large and support the school.
In the auction of new goods, farm supplies, processed meat, a rug and artworks, were just some of the items being auctioned thanks to local businesses' donations.
The second-hand auction had bikes, bookcases, bedroom drawers and beds make a bid on.
Simpson said the day wasn't only about the record profit, but the atmosphere.
"The atmosphere on Saturday was just awesome. Everyone had a great time and everywhere there were smiles. We had so many positive comments about the happy, friendly feeling around the school," she said.
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