The wait is over – Whakatāne High School’s much-anticipated annual ball is happening tonight, with this year’s enchanting theme, Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure, set to deliver an unforgettable evening of magic, music, and meticulous detail.

After months of preparation, the school hall has been transformed into a fairytale wonderland.

Tulle lines the walls like Rapunzel’s golden locks, glowing lanterns twinkle across the ceiling, and above the dance floor, a giant net is packed with hundreds of balloons ready to drop in a dazzling finale.

A dedicated committee of 31 students has worked tirelessly since term 2 to bring the vision to life.

Committee members Cassie Bennett and Jessie Jones are excited to see it all coming together.

“We’ve been working through the school holidays and after hours,” Jessie said.

“It’s been a huge team effort.”

Cassie estimates more than 40 to 50 hours have gone into the setup so far.

The entertainment is set to match the atmosphere.

“We’ve got a DJ coming from Tauranga and one of our talented students, Tyler Macey, will also be performing a set,” said staff co-ordinator Helen McKane.

“There will also be a photo booth and a themed photo backdrop in the drama room for those classic group shots.”

Of the 400 tickets available, 300 had already sold by yesterday. The event is open to year 12 and 13 students, with prefects from other local secondary schools also invited to share in the magic.