What is at the bottom of your garden? Several Ruahine Kindergartens have been pondering this question lately as part of the Manawatu Garden Festival's Schools' Competition.

Answers ranged from fairies, creepy crawlies and butterflies to windmills, fruit trees and rainbows as children, parents and teachers worked to create colourful banners for display at the festival held at Manfeild Stadium, May 1^st and 2^nd.

The inspiration for Manchester's winning entry came from surveying the kindergarten section, looking at gardening magazines and discussing ideas.

A beautiful birch tree with a knot known to children as the "fairy door" led to the inclusion of fairies, believed to sneak out and explore the kindergarten playground at night. A rambling creeper, solitary silver beet plant, paving stones and the bugs and insects children have been studying also feature.

"Manchester Kindergarten is embedded in the Feilding community", said Head Teacher Robyn Vine Aide. "Once aspects of the kindergarten garden had been considered, children, parents and teachers looked to the horizon and thought about landmarks of the Feilding district", she said.

Cows, sheep, the Oroua River, trucks to transport animals, Kitchener Park, the ranges in the distance and windmills complete a vibrant, collaborative banner to be proud of.

Children worked together with peers, parents and teachers in the banner's creation. The competition offers a wonderful opportunity for children to learn about their region and develop a greater appreciation for the natural environment whilst experimenting with creativity and having fun.

Above: Manchester Kindergarten's winning banner