Thirteen Christchurch schools set to close

The Education Ministry announced a proposal to close 13 Canterbury schools and merge another 18 - including the city's te Kura Kaupapa Maori immersion schools. Photo / APN

The Government is set to close 13 Canterbury schools and merge another 18 in an overhaul of the education sector in the area.

Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee and Education Minister Hekia Parata this afternoon announced a $1 billion suite of changes to education in Christchurch, Selwyn and Waimakariri.

It includes a proposal to close 13 schools in the greater Christchurch area affected by the February 22 earthquake.

Another 18 schools will be involved in mergers.

Ms Parata said the closures and mergers were part of an effort to deliver better services to Canterbury students.

"Our priority is delivering a network that will meet changing community needs and deliver better outcomes for learners."

Mr Brownlee said the Government was committed to investing $1 billion over the next 10 years to restore education in Canterbury.

"In line with community feedback we are taking the time to get this right, because the benefits to Christchurch and wider New Zealand are tremendous.

"Over time the renewed education network can provide greater Christchurch, Canterbury and wider New Zealand with a significantly enhanced asset."

- nzherald.co.nz