Auckland State of Emergency Closure Update
Tēnā tātou katoa
Apologies that not everyone received the earlier special bulletin.
This copy also corrects the statement to be clear, that schools may be open for instruction, through the provision of remote teaching and learning.
Earlier today the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) asked us to take action to help minimise traffic movement on Auckland roads while vital infrastructure is urgently repaired.
With the possibility of further weather damage leading to more disruption, the Secretary for Education has directed that schools, kura, early learning services and Tertiary Organisations in the Auckland region (Wellsford to Pukekohe) to close for physical attendance and instruction until 7 Feb.
Schools and kura can open or remain open for instruction but need to do that through distance online learning. As few staff as needed can be onsite to prepare for distance learning, and to oversee hostels if required. Tertiary organisations may also provide distance learning.
Early Learning Services may allow the physical attendance of any child whose parent needs them to do so but must otherwise be closed. Early learning services will continue to be funded.
Principals and education leaders have done a fantastic job of readying their schools for opening, and I know that this decision will be upsetting for some of them and for some parents.
I know this is a late announcement that will cause disruption and I thank the sector in advance. We need to get Tamaki Makaurau back up and running as quickly as possible.
Ngā mihi
Iona Holsted
Te Tumu Whakarae mō te Mātauranga
Secretary for Education