A New Zealand initiative led by Te Rūnanga o Ngā Wairiki-Ngāti Apa re-engaged 250+ kids in education.

An iwi-led initiative in New Zealand has successfully re-engaged over 250 children with education, addressing a school attendance crisis in Whanganui and South Rangitīkei. The initiative, led by Te Rūnanga o Ngā Wairiki-Ngāti Apa, worked with local providers and schools to close 494 cases in 2024, with over half closed due to children now attending school or engaged in alternative education. The approach focuses on supporting the entire family to address complex social issues affecting attendance.