- Free school lunches for primary students continue, older students see changes.
- Government saves $107 million annually with new lunch programme model.
- Pre-schoolers in select centres to receive free meals starting February.
The New Zealand government has announced significant adjustments to the school lunch programme, aiming to extend the benefit while ensuring fiscal efficiency. Under the leadership of Associate Education Minister David Seymour, the programme has undergone a financial review, identifying approximately $107 million in annual savings.
“Primary students already benefiting from free school lunches will continue to do so in the same way for the next two-and-a-half years, while older students will shift to an alternative model,” Seymour noted, ensuring stability for younger students while older students transition to a new delivery system.
A key feature of the revised programme includes extending free meal services to preschool children. Starting in February, up to 10,000 preschoolers in low-equity, not-for-profit, community-based centres will receive free morning tea and lunch five days a week. This expansion is part of a $4 million allocation aimed at supporting early childhood nutrition.
“The first 1000 days are key to a child’s development. I am proud this government can innovate to help even more children who need it,” Seymour stated, emphasizing the importance of early nutritional interventions.
For primary aged students, the existing on-site or daily delivered lunch model will continue unchanged. However, for students in year 7 and above, a more cost-effective approach will be implemented. This new model involves bulk purchasing of popular and nutritious food items like sandwiches and fruit, reflecting a shift towards more traditional lunch components. Schools will retain the flexibility to select and order their food based on specific needs.
“We are delivering on our commitment to treat taxpayers’ money with respect,” Seymour added, highlighting the government’s focus on fiscal responsibility and improved service delivery.
The programme’s cost for the 2025 school year is forecasted to be $234.8 million, reflecting the noted savings. An advisory group including representatives from various child welfare and health organizations will be established to oversee the logistics and nutritional aspects of the new programme arrangements.
This revision is not only a response to budgetary constraints but also part of a broader strategy to enhance the efficacy and reach of government services without excessive spending. The continued inclusion of the Kickstart Breakfast and Fruit in Schools programmes ensures comprehensive nutritional support for New Zealand’s schoolchildren.