Education Minister Hekia Parata has today opened Tarawera High School's modern new facilities, including 33 new teaching spaces, a performing arts theatre and a hospitality suite.

Following community consultation and the closure of Kawerau College and Kawerau Intermediate School, the Government has invested $15.6 million to redevelop the school which will cater for more than 500 students from years 7 to 13.

"This is excellent news and represents a great opportunity for modern learning. I'm impressed with the sustainable elements as well as the learning spaces.

"It's also nice to hear the positive feedback from the school and community on these new classrooms and facilities," Ms Parata said.

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Stage one was completed last year and included the new administration and learning space, hospitality block and theatre.

Stage two, delivering the remainder of the classrooms and technology block, was handed over to the school this month.

Ms Parata says the innovative teaching and learning spaces will ensure students are well supported to thrive in the future.

Tarawera High School was built to ensure it was closely connected to the Kawerau town centre and features a number of environmentally sustainable elements including large covered areas, special heating and ventilation systems, rainwater harvesting and solar panels to generate electricity.

Media contacts: Nick Venter 021 803 519, Jasmine Higginson 021 359 076