Yesterday morning was filled with colour and imagination as St Joseph's Catholic School in Whakatāne held its annual Storybook Parade.

Organised each year by school librarian Tracey Carberry, the event sees students and teachers transform into their favourite literary characters then parade for the school community.

Parents lined up as classes filed out, creating a festive atmosphere.

A buzz of excitement surrounded the parade as students proudly showcased their costumes, each bringing a touch of magic and imagination to the morning.

From princesses and minions to dragons and dinosaurs, there was no shortage of creativity, with characters from a wide variety of stories making an appearance.

When the parade concluded, judges selected three standout costumes from the many entries.

They were Jett Tozer as a colourful Mad Hatter, Blake Paton as Willy Wonka and Hudson Metcalfe with his elaborate dragon costume.