Ka Ora Ka Ako: A Transformative Journey at Freyberg High School

The Ka Ora Ka Ako Healthy School Lunch initiative at Freyberg High School embarked on its journey in Term 4 of 2021. From the outset, it was a challenging operation due to the limited availability of equipment. However, through meticulous menu planning and strategic execution, we managed to provide cold lunches for our students, ensuring that every meal met the necessary nutritional standards.

As the program evolved, so did our capabilities. By the latter part of the 2022 school year, we successfully transitioned to offering hot meals. This milestone was a testament to the dedication and perseverance of our team, who worked tirelessly to enhance the quality and variety of meals served to students.

The year 2023 marked a significant improvement in our operations with the installation of two state-of-the-art 40-tray ovens and a 120-liter tilting pan. These additions allowed us to elevate the quality of our lunches, offering not just meals but also snacks, fresh fruit, and even morning tea. The students’ patience and support throughout the journey paid off, as uptake skyrocketed and the school community wholeheartedly embraced the program.

By late Term 4 of 2023, a major renovation took place, ushering in a new era for the school’s lunch program. As of 2024, we are now blessed with a cutting-edge kitchen facility capable of catering to up to 2,500 students. With these advancements, meals have continued to improve, and operations have become smoother than ever.

However, as we entered 2025, we faced new challenges with adjustments to the lunch program’s budget. Despite these changes, our commitment to providing high-quality meals remains unwavering. Freyberg High School takes immense pride in the nutritious and delicious meals we continue to serve, ensuring that our students receive the sustenance they need to thrive academically and beyond.

Ka Ora Ka Ako has not only transformed our school’s meal service but has also fostered a stronger sense of community and well-being among our students. We look forward to continuing this journey and overcoming any obstacles that come our way, always striving to provide the best for our students.