New Zealand will see its first newly built day specialist schools in almost 50 years, as the Government moves to expand learning support for children with high and complex needs.

Education Minister Erica Stanford announced today that two new day specialist schools will open in Palmerston North and South Auckland from Term 2 in 2027 and Term 1 in 2028.

Ms Stanford described the move as a long-awaited milestone for specialist education, saying families have been calling for more options for children who need highly tailored learning environments.

She said demand for specialist education has continued to grow, particularly in regions where access has been limited by distance and capacity constraints.

The two new schools will increase the total number of specialist schools across the country to 29. The last day specialist school to be established in New Zealand was Hamilton North School in 1977.

Finance Minister Nicola Willis said supporting children with additional learning, physical and behavioural needs has been a key focus in recent budgets. She noted that $746.9 million was allocated in last year’s Budget to improve early identification and provide better support for children with additional needs.

Ms Stanford added that since coming into office, the Government has funded 50 new specialist classrooms and redeveloped four specialist schools, reinforcing its commitment to giving families greater choice.

The new schools will be built offsite using a standard design and layout, and will feature purpose-built teaching spaces, accessible indoor and outdoor learning areas, therapy rooms and family spaces to support a wide range of student needs.