Solar on schools in line with Kaikōura's dark sky status - principal
Fri, 14th Aug 2026 (Today)
Kaikōura's mayor is thrilled to learn two local schools could soon receive solar power.
Te Kura o Hāpuku and Kaikōura High School are among 500 schools around the country listed as eligible for the Government's $30m solar on schools programme.
The programme was announced by Education Minister Erica Stanford and Energy Minister Simeon Brown on August 10.
Mayor Craig Mackle, who is also Kaikōura High School board of trustees presiding member, was unaware of the announcement when contacted by Local Democracy Reporting.
''That's great news, for the school, and it's exciting for our wee district.''
Kaikōura High School principal Jo Fissenden said the school was ''delighted'' to have been selected.
''It will make a great difference as we spend a significant amount on heat light and water and our boilers have just been removed, so we are noticing the difference in energy consumption in a cold winter.
''It fits really nicely with Kaikoura's efforts to be as eco-minded as possible and the dark skies sanctuary, so it is great the school can do a bit towards it.''
Seven Marlborough schools and four North Canterbury schools were also listed.
These included Grovetown School, Linkwater School, Picton School, Rapaura School, Redwoodtown School, Waitaria Bay School and Witherlea School in Marlborough, and Cheviot Area School, Amuri Area School, Oxford Area
School and Waikari School.
The Government announced solar panels will be installed in the 500 schools over three years.
Ms Stanford said the programme makes use of existing buildings, reduces the environmental footprint and will help schools save money.
''Large schools are expected to save around $8000 a year on average on electricity, freeing up money that can be spent on teaching and learning.
''This is a smart, practical investment in both our schools and New Zealand's future.''
LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
