Lent Begins

February 19, 2026

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Lent has begun for many Christians across New Zealand, starting on Wednesday 18 February 2026, a day known as Ash Wednesday.

In churches around the country, people marked the beginning of this special season as they prepare for Easter on Sunday 5 April 2026.

Lent lasts for 40 days (not counting Sundays) and is a time for thinking, learning, and making good choices. Many families use Lent to focus on three main ideas: prayer, giving to others, and going without something as a challenge. Some people choose to fast, which means eating less of certain foods, while others “give up” treats like lollies, fizzy drinks, or extra screen time. The point is not to be miserable, but to practise self-control and remember what matters most.

On Ash Wednesday, some worshippers had a small cross made of ash placed on their forehead. The ashes are a reminder that people are not perfect and can always try again. It is also a sign of starting fresh, a bit like resetting your goals at the beginning of a school term.

Article written by Milli Banbury

This article was written using AI as an assistive tool for research, writing, and proofreading.
The te reo Māori version of this article was translated with AI assistance. While care has been taken to keep it accurate, if you spot anything that doesn't read quite right, please let us know

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Learning Options

Recall Questions

Thinking questions

Digital Thinking

The class outdoor education trip began early on Tuesday at Lake Ōkārito. After a safety briefing, the students checked their life jackets and learnt how to paddle in a straight line. The water was calm at first, but a light wind picked up later in the morning. Even so, the group stayed together and followed the instructor’s directions. They stopped halfway for a short break and then completed the return trip to shore. Most students said the best part was gaining confidence in the kayaks and working as a team. The instructor praised their listening skills and steady effort throughout the morning.

Which statement is the BEST summary of the passage?

The class completed a kayak trip at Lake Ōkārito, followed safety instructions, and gained confidence by working together. The instructor was pleased because the students were already skilled at kayaking before the lesson started. The wind became strong enough that the trip had to be cancelled before the students entered the water. The students took a break halfway through the trip and then returned to shore.