Kia ora,

This afternoon I shared some big news at our Labour Conference — an announcement that will benefit almost every single state school and kura in New Zealand, improving our children’s education, while also creating work for tradies across the country. 

Now, I’ve been to a fair number of schools in my time, of course as a student, but now as a Prime Minister. Amongst all those visits, I can’t think of one school that didn’t have need - whether it’s an old roof, carpet, or replacing coal boilers.

That’s why today, we announced that almost every state school in New Zealand will receive a one-off cash injection of up to $400,000 for new upgrades. Even the smallest schools will get at least $50,000 to improve their facilities and become better places for our kids to learn.

This will mean schools can ensure classrooms are warm and dry, or improve play or recreation areas. Whatever schools have identified as their most pressing needs, they’ll be able to get on and do something about it!

All of this will also mean schools can engage local builders, plumbers, carpenters and landscapers, and get started on those important jobs.

This is just the first part of our new infrastructure package, and one element of our work to rebuild New Zealand. It's another step in our plan to fix the long-term problems facing our country and create change for the better.

We've already achieved a lot and I'm incredibly proud of how far we've come — but we will not settle. This is the beginning, not the end.

Let's keep doing this.

Thanks,

Jacinda 

P.S. You can watch my announcement speech online here.

P.P.S. We’re only able to make big changes like this because of the support we got from people like you to help fund our 2017 election campaign. Can you help us keep going in 2020 and beyond by donating what you can today?