School road patrols are used to stopping traffic - but not often on this scale.
A band from Happy Valley school warmed up the crowd, which also featured a haka and a piano performance. Photo: RNZ / Dom Thomas
Roads were closed through the capital's central business district this morning to make way for the Orange Day Parade, honouring school road patrol volunteers.
Organisers said about 1200 primary school students plus teachers and parents took part in the parade, which left Parliament at 10am and finished at the Michael Fowler Centre in Civic Square.
A band from Happy Valley school warmed up the crowd, which also featured a haka and a piano performance.
Mayor Justin Lester was presiding over the award ceremony at the Michael Fowler Centre, handing out the prizes for best banners and best presence in the parade.
Best Banner went to Kilbirnie School, and Lyall Bay won the prestigious Best School.
Lily from Greenacres School who won Best Poster, said she loves being a road patroller.
"You keep people safe on the roads - I just like taking care of people," she said.
"We just made a poster each, and I showed my teacher, Mrs O'Neill, and she said it was awesome!"
Organisers said about 1200 primary school students, plus teachers and parents, took part in the parade, which left Parliament at 10am, finishing at the Michael Fowler Centre in Civic Square. Photo: RNZ / Dom Thomas
Wellington School Community Officer Aaron Dann, who trains road patrollers, said students played a vital role in improving safety around their schools and communities.
"The student patrols are out rain or shine making sure their peers are safe on their commute to and from school - and reminding drivers to be alert and adhere to road safety rules when passing schools."
New Zealand is one of only a few countries, which still gives children the power to halt traffic.
The parade, which is organised by Wellington City Council and the police, has been running for more than 20 years.