"I just can't believe how our Minister has changed what he is saying now so much from pre-power days," he said. "I always thought I was a cynic… now I'm a total unbeliever. Our political masters over the years have done their utmost to destroy our profession, and have nearly succeeded. In my view, this is our Dunkirk, and we must stay together strongly."
Workloads and resourcing for high-needs children were the key issues for teachers in Kerikeri. Karen Fletcher, Riverview Primary, said she arrived at school at 6.30am each day and left around 5pm, but still didn't have time to do everything required. She also worked on Saturdays and spent many evenings writing reports, analysing data, meeting parents or helping with school productions.
Melanie Martin, a team leader at Kerikeri Primary School, said a lack of resourcing for children with learning needs was her main concern. The school was lucky to get five hours' support a week for children with learning needs and they still had to go on a waiting list.
Applying for extra help for children was complex, time consuming and onerous.
"You practically need a Master's just to do the application. If you have a child in this country with diverse needs, be prepared to battle for any support in the public school system," she said.