Schools across Northland, Bay of Plenty, and Auckland face teacher shortages in 2025, with 750 primary and 500 secondary teachers needed, according to the Ministry of Education’s latest Teacher Demand and Supply Report.

While primary schools may see a surplus by 2027, secondary schools will remain understaffed, particularly in Taranaki (-6%), Otago (-4%), and Auckland (-4%).

The report, delayed due to last year’s data error, includes a regional breakdown for the first time, giving a clearer picture of where the biggest challenges lie.

Anna Welanyk, Deputy Secretary of the Education Workforce, said local insights will help address supply issues:

“The regional breakdown improves our understanding of supply and demand differences, allowing better tailoring of initiatives. It also supports discussions on teacher supply and the challenges faced at the local level with schools.”

For families on the Hibiscus Coast, these shortages could lead to larger class sizes, heavier workloads for teachers, and difficulty filling specialist roles.

Student numbers are rising faster than expected, with 1,000 more primary teachers and 400 secondary teachers needed in 2025 to keep up.

Despite strong retention rates (88-90%), more educators are needed to replace retiring teachers and fill growing gaps.

To help, the Ministry is rolling out recruitment and retention initiatives, including:

• School Onsite Training Programme – Hands-on training for future teachers, with 147 places taken up in 2024.
• Voluntary Bonding Scheme – Up to $17,500 for teachers who commit to high-need schools.
• Overseas Recruitment Support – Grants and finder's fees for international hires.
• BeTTER Jobs Programme – Matching new and returning teachers with schools in need.
• Fast-Track Training for Teacher Aides – Helping aides transition into teaching roles.

What’s Next?

With up to 1,000 primary and 1,200 secondary teachers expected to enter the workforce in 2025, the Ministry hopes to ease the pressure on schools.

However, ongoing shortages in key regions remain a concern.

Parents and communities can stay informed and support local schools as they navigate these challenges.

Those interested in teaching or returning to the profession can explore training and incentive programmes through the Ministry of Education’s website.

“These initiatives are part of a targeted plan to build a strong pipeline of both domestically trained and overseas recruited teachers,” said Welanyk.

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