Jan Tinetti Labour MP

Our Government has a proud record of investing in our schools, lifting the quality of the classrooms students and teachers spend so much time in.

Already, we've provided up to $400,000 to almost every state school in the country to upgrade their facilities – but we know there's more to do.

The election delivered a clear mandate to accelerate our economic recovery from Covid-19 and build back better.

That's why we're fast-tracking investment in projects that will reduce schools' emissions and save them money, while also supporting local jobs and growing our economy.

The Government recently announced that around 7500 students will benefit from our latest investment of $164 million to build new classrooms and upgrade schools around the country.

This package will help create and sustain more than 3000 jobs for local builders, plumbers, carpenters, roofers and electricians, who will in-turn buy products and supplies from local stores, which boosts regional economies.

In the Bay of Plenty more than $30 million has been allocated for three new schools and school expansions which will provide space for more than 1000 additional students.

The $30 million will be divided between Papamoa's Te Okuroa Drive School (stage 2 expansion), Papamoa College (stage 3 and 4 expansion) and Taumata School in Pyes Pa (stage 2 expansion).

I know this is just the start and there's more to do, but I am proud this Government is prioritising construction projects in schools so more young New Zealanders can learn in warm and dry classrooms that are fit for purpose.