New schools for northeast Hamilton

Two new schools are proposed for northeast Hamilton, with plans to open them within the next three years.

The government is proposing to spend $7-10 million on a new primary school in the Flagstaff area, to open in 2015.

It is also looking to open a new intermediate, secondary or combined school in 2016.

Education Minister Hekia Parata says the number of primary school age students in northeast Hamilton is expected to grow from 1900 currently to about 2500 in 2016.

Two new schools - Rototuna Primary School and Te Totara Primary School - opened in the area in the past decade, but both were near capacity.

Ms Parata says the proposed new schools will have "flexible learning areas" and energy-efficient buildings.

The Ministry of Education will consult nearby primary schools about what impact the new primary school will have on their rolls until April.

It will consult on options for a new intermediate, secondary or year 7-13 school in August and September.

A final decision about the new primary school will be made in June, and the new provision for years 7-13 later this year.