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They're bright, loud and have hit the streets with important messages to send about road safety and active travel.

More than 550 students from schools throughout the Bay of Plenty braved the weather this morning, to take part in this year's Orange Day Parade.

The Orange Day Parade celebrates primary and intermediate schools throughout Tauranga and Western Bay areas who have joined with travel safe teams and NZ Police undertaking activities such as travel smart and safe students, road patrols, traffic wardens and bus monitoring during the year.

Donned in orange, the students have walked the streets, chanting and waving banners to raise awareness about road safety and active travel around schools.

The parade departed from the Strand next to the waka at about 9.30am, before heading along Harington, Willow, Spring, Grey and Elizabeth Streets, back down Devonport Road to The Strand and concluded at 10am at the Edgewater Fan on the waterfront.

A number of members of public along and family members gathered along the sidewalk to support students along the way.

At the conclusion of the parade a number of trophies were awarded to schools with the best banners.

Golden Sands, Greenpark and Arataki schools have been recognised for their efforts with a highly commended award.

Students from Golden Sands School.

Students from Greenpark School.

Students from Arataki School.

In the Primary School age division, Te Puna Primary School claimed the top award for best road safety message, while Gate Pa School claimed the top award for best active travel message.

Te Puna Primary School's banner.

Gate Pa Primary School's banner.

In the Intermediate age division, Tauriko Intermediate School claimed the top award for best road safety message and Mount Maunganui Intermediate claimed the top title for having the best active travel message.

Tauriko Intermediate.

Mount Maunganui Intermediate School.