Building the future for the Banks Peninsula – Vanessa Weenink
by Metropol | July 8, 2026 8:33 am
New classrooms and sustainable transport infrastructure on the way.
MP for Banks Peninsula
I was delighted to see that communities across the Banks Peninsula are set to benefit from more investment in schools and sustainable transport infrastructure.
The Government announced funding for four new classrooms at Somerfield Te Kura Wairepo as part of a $62.5 million investment in new classrooms and school upgrades across the South Island.
This builds on a series of classroom projects already announced at Somerfield Te Kura Wairepo, Te Kura o te Tauawa Halswell, and Cashmere High School over the past 18 months. It reflects the Government’s commitment to ensure local students have access to modern, fit-for-purpose learning environments closer to home as our communities continue to grow.
At the same time, $180,000 of funding has been allocated to install new e-bike charging facilities along the Little River Rail Trail as cycling and e-biking continue to grow in popularity across Banks Peninsula. This funding comes from the Government’s Electrifying the Great Rides Fund, which is drawn from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy.
The new chargers will make it easier for both residents and visitors to choose sustainable transport options while exploring one of New Zealand’s most beautiful regions. They are a practical addition that supports local tourism, encourages active transport and helps reduce transport emissions.
Whether it is creating more opportunities for students to learn or making it easier for cyclists to travel and explore, these investments strengthen our communities and help ensure Banks Peninsula remains a fantastic place to live, work and visit. It also means local jobs to help grow our economy.
I look forward to seeing the positive impact these projects will have for local families, businesses and visitors in the years ahead.
Source URL: https://metropol.co.nz/building-the-future-for-the-banks-peninsula-vanessa-weenink/