Kia ora whānau,

Late last night we received the following communication from the Secretary for Education:

“The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) asked us to consider closing Auckland schools, early learning services and tertiary institutions to reduce traffic movement while vital infrastructure is urgently repaired.

With the possibility of further weather damage leading to more disruption, as the Secretary for Education I have directed that schools, kura, early learning services and tertiary institutions in the Auckland region (Wellsford to Pukekohe) to close for physical onsite attendance and instruction until Friday, opening after Waitangi weekend on Tuesday 7 February.

I have taken the decision to use my power under Section 654 of the Education and Training Act 2020 to direct each governing body of a registered school, private training establishment, or institution in [Auckland] to close for both physical attendance and instruction until 7 February.

Section 654 of the Education and Training Act 2020 – New Zealand Legislation”

As such, our first day back at Long Bay College for 2023 will be the Tuesday after Waitangi Day, 7 February.

I appreciate that this is disappointing and another small obstacle for our community to overcome but look optimistically to the future knowing we will face the challenge head on and ultimately be stronger for the experience.

I would like to thank the Board and Senior Leadership Team for their work over the long weekend in ensuring that we remained ahead of the curve in making the right decision for our community.

Further communication regarding the exact start-up details and format will follow in due course.

Ngā mihi

CJ HEALEY
Tumuaki / Principal