2 August 2007 Media Statement

Healthy lifestyle helps students learn

Education Minister Steve Maharey put his culinary reputation on the line today to launch the secondary school Student Health Promotion, part of the Government’s Mission-On campaign, aimed at improving the lifestyle of young New Zealanders.

The Minister’s cooking demonstration at Waitakere College is the first of a series of promotional activities designed to encourage secondary school students to eat healthy foods and exercise more.

“We know that students who feel good about themselves, who are fit and who make wise food choices find it easier to learn.”

Waitakere College was chosen for today’s event because it already has a number of programmes underway to make it easier for staff and students to make healthy choices.

“I want to congratulate the College for the healthy changes it has already introduced. The standard of food at the canteen has improved, and drinks laden with sugar have been replaced by water fountains around the school.

“Mission-On is not about banning particular foods; it’s about helping make sure students get the opportunity to eat healthy food that tastes good – especially at school.”

The day’s activities include a comedy sketch produced and performed by students from the college and a demonstration of the physical benefits of hip-hop dancing.

Two of the Mission-On ambassadors will also be there; popular television and radio personality Nathan Rarere and last year’s NZ Idol runner up, Indira Moala.

The Labour-led government is investing $67 million over the next four years in Mission- On initiatives to promote improved nutrition and increased physical activity for 0-24 year olds.

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