3 November 2001 Media Statement

Hukarere College for Maori girls in Napier is being relocated from the start of 2002, Education ministers Trevor Mallard and Parekura Horomia said today.

The decision to relocate Hukarere was made after several months of discussion between the school, families, Te Aute Trust Board, church representatives, the Maori boarding schools group Paerangi, and Ministry of Education officials.

Trevor Mallard said the state of the site and ageing buildings at the Anglican school posed an ongoing earthquake and fire risk, and interim relocation was being taken as a safety measure.

“At the moment we are looking at Hukarere being located at France House for two to three years. During that time we will look at long term options for both the college and for Maori boarding school education generally in the region.”

The new site, France House is in Eskdale, 16 km north of Napier. It has boarding facilities and recreation space, and relocatable classrooms will be provided to allow Hukarere to open there at the beginning of next year.

Associate Education Minister Parekura Horomia said the past will not be forgotten as we look for positive solutions in the future.

“Everyone recognises that the current site of Hukarere holds immense historical significance, but the health and safety of students and staff has to come first in these matters.”

“This year’s roll is near to its capacity of 80 students. It is pleasing to note that over the past five years the college had achieved significant improvements in its delivery of the curriculum.”

The school and Ministry of Education will be working with parents and students over the coming weeks to manage the transition to France House.

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