At Maungatapere School, Room 14 has spent the past term proving when tamariki come together with creativity and compassion, they can make a real difference in their community.
What began as a simple idea - recycling chip packets into blankets - quickly grew into a full-scale project that combined science, sustainability, teamwork, and heart. And last week, their hard work found its way to the people and animals who need warmth the most.
Creating a Space-Blanket… From Lunchbox Rubbish
The students started by collecting empty chip packets from every class’s lunchboxes. These packets have a silver reflective lining, similar to the technology NASA first used in 1964 to help keep astronauts warm in space. That lining reflects body heat back to the wearer, making it perfect for an upcycled “space blanket”.
Before anything could be made, Room 14 cut, washed, and flattened hundreds of packets (so the classroom didn’t smell like old chips!). Then the real work began.
Using irons, the students carefully “welded” the clean packets together to form a large sheet. A layer of cling film was added to create strength and a glossy finish, and calf-pellet bags were stitched on the back to make the blankets waterproof and durable. Some blankets even included sewn tunnels stuffed with soft plastics recycled straight from school lunches.
When they tested their creations, several students said they were warm enough to sleep in.
By the end of the project, Room 14 had crafted six strong, cosy blankets using roughly 1000 chip packets.
Sharing the Warmth
On Friday 14 November, Mrs Goodison and a small group of students visited the Maungatapere Rest Home to show the residents what they had made. The response was full of smiles, curiosity, and pride in the students’ innovation.
From there, four students - Connor, Ava, Kody and Maddi - travelled into Whangārei to deliver blankets to Whare Āwhina and the SPCA.
Their hope was simple: that these blankets bring comfort, dignity, and warmth to those who need it this Christmas.
Aroha in Action
At Whare Āwhina, we see the difference small acts of care can make. These blankets are a reminder of the power of whanaungatanga, of communities teaching their tamariki to look outward, to uplift others, and to use what they have to help where they can.
Room 14, we are so grateful for your mahi and your generous hearts. You’ve shown us what’s possible when we combine innovation with aroha.
Ngā mihi nui to the students, teachers, and school community who made this project happen, your kindness will be felt.
