Five schools to close around Greymouth

Five more schools are to close as the Government continues to enact its controversial education policy.

The axe has fallen on five schools in the Grey Valley inland from Greymouth. Major cash injections saved three more from the cull.

Education Minister Trevor Mallard told more than 100 people in Greymouth that there would be a lower valley school at Brunnerton, an upper at Ahaura and a satellite school at Blackball.

Consequently, Moonlight, Ngahere, Totara Flat, Kaiata and Stillwater schools would close.

Mr Mallard also promised a full review of the local transport network to minimise travel times and distances.

This week the Green Party accused Mr Mallard of cutting a swathe through South Canterbury after he revealed proposals for the closing of 15 of 34 schools in the Timaru district.