A Pacific academic at Auckland University says achievement rates for Pacific students in the country are not increasing as hoped for at tertiary level despite a 15 year old government initiative.
Government figures show a higher proportion of Pacific people studying at tertiary level compared to the general population.
Around 15 years ago, New Zealand's education ministry released the Pasifika Education Plan which aimed to increase participation, retention and achievement for Pacific students from early childhood through to tertiary level.
Pacific Historian Damon Salesa Photo: Supplied
Professor Damon Salesa says the plan has failed to lift Pacific achievement rates.
"We have to acknowledge that the education system in New Zealand has been far more responsive to Pacific needs in the last 10 to15 years. And I think that's what's most disappointing. We would've thought that there would've been a greater shift in achievement rates."
Listen to the Dateline Pacific full package about Pacific achievement rates