Thirty-eight primary schools officially took part in the event, with many others informally participating.

Christchurch city has led the way in New Zealand with the Walk to School Day, which was launched here in 1999. This was the first year that the day was held nationally.

Walk to School Day took place with the help of famous sports stars and local politicians, such as women cricketers Nicola Payne, Paula Flannery and Erin McDonald; NZ Tall Black John Watson; paralympian Ben Lucas; and netballers Belinda Charteris and Lisa Gregory, Christchurch Mayor, Garry Moore, and Sport Canterbury CEO Selwyn Maister.

Redcliffs School used the day to launch their “walking school bus”, with Erin McDonald being a guest “driver” on one of them.

Five other Christchurch schools already have walking school buses, and several plan to survey their community on the concept.

For information contact Paul Cottam, Safe Routes to School Co-ordinator, ph 941 8299.