Get ready for a great day out! Albany Junior High School’s much-loved Community Gala returns on Saturday, 20 March 2027, bringing together thousands of students, parents, whānau, local businesses and residents for a day of entertainment, games, food, shopping and community connection.
The annual gala is more than just a fun day on the school calendar. It is an important fundraising event that helps provide students with resources, opportunities and facilities that are not funded by the Ministry of Education.
The impact of the community’s support was clear at the 2026 gala, which raised $6,100 towards books and learning resources. Following the event, the school thanked the community for helping make the day such a success, saying it was “so grateful to be part of such a fantastic community that gets behind us”.
That community spirit has been a feature of the gala for many years. The 2024 event featured an impressive 54 food trucks, stalls and games and raised around $10,000 towards completing the school’s whare wānanga New Learning Space.
For Albany Junior High School, bringing people together is an important part of what makes the gala special. Following the 2024 event, the school highlighted that “bringing the community together is very important to us”, while also acknowledging the many people and businesses who contribute to making the event possible: “Without you, these awesome events simply do not happen.”
Local Businesses Can Make a Difference
With preparations now underway for 2027, the school is once again calling on the local business community to get involved.
Businesses can support the gala through financial sponsorship, raffle and prize donations, products, services or sponsorship of activities and entertainment. Contributions could range from donating a prize or voucher through to sponsoring a particular part of the event.
For local businesses, supporting the gala is an opportunity to give back to the community, support young people and connect with thousands of local families. Businesses that contribute will be recognised through event signage, the school website, promotional materials, the Albany Junior High School newsletter and social media, as well as acknowledgements during the event.
The gala is expected to feature food stalls, market vendors, games, rides, live entertainment and activities for all ages, creating a vibrant community day for students, families and visitors.
The school has previously highlighted just how much it appreciates the support it receives, noting that “we really do appreciate the amazing support we get from this event every year.”
With every contribution helping to support students and enhance their school experience, Albany Junior High School is hoping the local business community will once again get behind the gala and help make 2027 another memorable year.
Get Involved
Albany Junior High School Gala
Saturday, 20 March 2027
Time: 10am to 2pm
Location: Albany Junior High School, 19 Appleby Road, Albany
Businesses interested in supporting the gala or finding out more about sponsorship opportunities can contact the Albany Junior High School PTA at ptaajhs@gmail.com or visit www.ajhs.school.nz.
