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A former NZ Post worker has admitted writing abusive comments on a number of marked NCEA papers, describing them as a "joke".
NZ Post said the temporary worker had recognised the names of former schoolmates on some of the marked papers and wrote the comments as a prank.
Postal Services Chief Executive Peter Fenton said NZ Post would be reviewing the processes in light of the former employee's actions.
"This person has caused damage to the reputation of New Zealand Post and lowered our trustworthiness in the eyes of exam candidates and the public in general," he said.
At least five Cashmere students had their marked NCEA exam answer booklets returned with rude comments scrawled on them.
Comments, written in blue marker pen, included "good one dick!!" and "You useless sack of poo".
Another student had the words "SHAME ELF!!" written on her exam paper, using a derogatory nickname her fellow students called her.
Mr Fenton said the temporary staff member had finished work before the tampering came to light.
He said NZ Post had apologised to the Qualifications Authority and would send written apologies to the affected students.
- NZHERALD STAFF
