I hope you are over the scared feeling you had on the day of the big earthquake. It is a hard thing to think about I am sure.

So many people were afraid that day and you have been one of the many brave who have been able to write about it so that those of us who have not experienced it can get an idea of what it was like.

Your teachers sound great, with handing out chocolate and putting on a movie and looking after you well. Did you ever get to see the end of it? Finding Nemo is one of my favourite movies!

I hope Mum got through and that you and your family are all well and together now.

You know that the rebuilding of Canterbury will take a little while and you will be one of the contributors, as young people will come forward and have their say on their future…this is an important role and I know you will do well in that Samantha.

Good luck from Ella in Auckland.