Malvern Children's Day 2023

We couldn’t bring the sun to Malvern but we certainly brought the fun!! Darfield played host to Selwyn Parenting Network’s (SPN) inaugural Malvern Children’s Day on Sunday. Hundreds of families from all over the district poured through the doors of the Recreation Centre to enjoy the free activities and family fun on offer, to celebrate Children’s Day NZ.

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Not even the relentless weekend rain could dampen the spirits of young and old, who delighted in no less than 5 large inflatables, henna and airspray tattoo art, Facepainting, sensory play, balloon animals, soft play and a small animals pet zone. Speaking of the success, SPNs Operations & Event organiser Kate Webb said “A highlight for me was the space occupied by Darfield Volunteer Fire Brigade and Darfield Play Centre who epitomised community spirit in all that they did. The fun activities not only taught the children valuable life skills but also served as a future modelling to them of how extraordinarily rewarding volunteering can be.

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Lincoln Playcentre raised just shy of $800 through their incredible bakesale with all funds being donated to Wairoa Playcentre to distribute to their families as and when they need to, following the devastation of last month. Realising the considerable growth of the Malvern region, and with the cost of living raging in 2023, SPN knew it was time to take Children’s Day direct to Darfield. “Bringing this event directly to families of Malvern was truly appreciated. We were blown away by the number of families that commented on the ‘relief and joy’ it brought them, to have a totally free event where tamariki could just blend in with equality to their peers whilst having the time of their lives”.

Special thanks to Malvern Community Board, Selwyn District Council, Malvern Estates and Fleur Earl at Darfield Recreation Centre