Pupils take on health, wellbeing challenge

Ten Otago schools and 710 pupils are keeping track of their steps, what they eat and general wellbeing as part of a nationwide challenge that focuses on physical and mental wellbeing.

The Zespri Young and Healthy Virtual Adventure started on August 15, and 20,000 pupils from 261 schools across New Zealand are taking part.

Organisation founder Kim Harvey said the challenge was designed to encourage and educate children to create their best health and wellbeing practices.

It also aimed to influence their families to get involved.

At Trinity College, 84 pupils and year 7 teacher Nina O’Callaghan were taking part.

Ms O’Callaghan said the programme was good because it could be incorporated into the school’s health curriculum.

Year 7 pupils Sophie Megget and Jemma Hapeta said the challenge had been fun and encouraged lots of healthy habits.

"After school I sometimes run around the block or something," Sophie said.

"Because it’s healthier for you and I feel better after I do it."

She used to get sick quite a lot but did not as much any more.

She had also been encouraging her family to take part in the challenge with her.

Jemma said she had started drinking a lot more water since the challenge began, and it had become a friendly competition with her friends.

mark.john@odt.co.nz