Hon Pete Hodgson
Minister for Tertiary Education

22 April 2008 Media Statement
Government provides funding boost for Tairawhiti Polytechnic

Gisborne’s Tairawhiti Polytechnic is to receive $1.3 million to help it provide quality education and training to the Gisborne area, Tertiary Education Minister Hon Pete Hodgson, MP for Ikaroa-Rawhiti Hon Parekura Horomia and MP Moana Mackey announced today.

“This money will help Tairawhiti move to a surer footing. It comes at an exciting time with a focussed council, and a new Chief Executive and senior management team in place, who have clear direction and goals,” said Pete Hodgson.

“Tairawhiti Polytechnic is very important to the Gisborne region. It is a place where people from all walks of life come to learn and acquire new skills and knowledge,” said Parekura Horomia and Moana Mackey.

“This Labour-led government is committed to supporting polytechnics to better meet the needs of their regions.

“The government recognises that some polytechnics need to change the way they operate and need additional funding to do that. This is where the type of investment announced today comes in,” said Pete Hodgson.

The government also announced additional funding for Otago Polytechnic ($5.985 million) and Whitireia Community Polytechnic, in Porirua ($1.08 million) to help them better meet the needs of their regions.

The Tertiary Education Commission will work closely with all three polytechnics to ensure the money is well spent and the objectives of this funding are met.

ENDS

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