Harold takes children’s wishes to the stars

Harold takes children’s wishes to the stars

Life Education Trust mascot, Harold the Giraffe, will tomorrow at 5:36am (NZ time) accomplish his life-long dream and blast off on a two-day journey to the International Space Station, where he will stay with a team of astronauts for several months.

As the first giraffe and the first New Zealander in space, Harold’s trip will inspire New Zealand children to follow their dreams.

Harold was officially farewelled by Prime Minister John Key and children of St Anne’s School, Newtown at Parliament.

While in space, Harold will “wish upon a star” on behalf of thousands of primary and intermediate school children.

250,000 stars have been printed and distributed to schools. Children can fill out a star with their special wish which will be passed onto Harold. One lucky child will win a live video-link for their class to the International Space Station staring Harold in space.

Life Education Trust Chairman, Angus Fletcher said getting the children to “wish upon a star” would help them think about their wishes for the future.

“Wishes are coming in daily and we’re humbled by the responses. One child simply wants to touch snow, while another wants to be a loving Dad, have a wife and children, and have a happy life together. One child said she wanted to be the Prime Minister so she could be good and kind to people.

“Children love Harold – his dream has come true and we hope that his experience will inspire children to reach for the stars themselves,” says Fletcher.

The National Bank is sponsoring this aspirational campaign.
“The National Bank is pleased to sponsor this competition and the ongoing work of the Life Education Trust because we understand that our children are the future of New Zealand. It’s important that we nurture children, encourage them to trust in themselves, to set their sights high and aim for the stars.

“Supporting the education of children in New Zealand and encouraging them to aspire to live their dreams is something The National Bank is very passionate about,” Jenny Fagg, ANZ National CEO said.

Children can tune into Harold in Space on www.haroldinspace.co.nz.
Children can enter the ‘Wish Upon a Star’ competition through any branch of The National Bank or through their school. Entries close on 25 September and winners will be announced in October.

ENDS

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