After more than fifteen months of planning and fundraising over $100,000 a group from Maniototo Area School (MAS) are off on an adventure to Vietnam next week.

MAS principal Melissa Bell is leading the trip of 22 pupils in Years 10 -13, three staff and 12 parents, and the group will be away for two weeks.

Melissa said the group was very excited.

“Many have never been overseas so they are over the moon to be heading off on such an adventure with their friends.  

“There is also definitely some nervousness. I think they are really aware of the potential for culture shock when they hit the big cities - especially coming from a rural area.”

They will journey from North to South Vietnam, visiting Hanoi, Sapa , Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City.

Melissa hopes those on the trip will develop an appreciation for diversity from the experience.

“I hope they develop confidence, a sense of gratitude for all that we have here in New Zealand. A sense of adventure too.” she said. 

A year-long fundraising campaign has been a key part of the planning to make the trip possible.

“We could not have got here without the support of the community - it has been truly phenomenal. To everyone who bought a raffle ticket, or firewood or supported a fundraiser - [a] huge thanks.”

The Central App will catch up with MAS and share an update on the trip when the group returns home. 

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