“Giving Northland control over its own vocational education will ensure that decisions will be made locally, supporting programmes that meet local industry needs, support key sectors and create real pathways into fulltime work – making it a great win for our region,” McCallum said.
NorthTec’s return to a standalone regional polytechnic will result in the return of its ringfenced reserves of $4.7m, alongside $1.3m per year from 2028 to 2031 through funding for strategically important provision. Support of $4.5m has also been provided for property consolidation.
Whangārei Mayor Ken Couper said the funding would support NorthTec’s proposed relocation into KEA.
Couper said the hub was about growing Northland’s potential by creating a modern learning environment that supported local needs.
“ … Its location in the Whangārei CBD means students, staff and industry partners will be connected to public transport, local businesses and civic spaces, supporting both educational outcomes and the vitality of the city centre.”
Local Democracy New Zealand reported last year that the University of Auckland and Te Pūkenga had signed a memorandum of understanding regarding KEA.
The hub could be up to five storeys and cover an area the size of a rugby field in the city’s southwest corner, around the former Whangārei District Council Forum North headquarters.
Couper said such backing from the Government on the project would make a “meaningful difference” to young people across Northland.
“The Knowledge Hub will help strengthen pathways to jobs, keep more young people in Northland, and ensure training is targeted to the workforce gaps and opportunities that exist here.”
The council’s role would be to help ensure conditions were right for learners, employers, families and tertiary providers to succeed, he said.
“It is about giving our young people clear pathways, real opportunities and a future they can build right here in our region.”
McCallum said the proposed KEA development would help modernise NorthTec’s facilities and improve access for learners across the region.
Brodie Stone covers crime and emergency for the Northern Advocate. She has spent most of her life in Whangārei and is passionate about delving into issues that matter to Northlanders and beyond.