Update on Collective Agreement negotiations for Area School Principals
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Last updated 19 December 2025
An offer was made for the renewal of the Area School Principals’ Collective Agreement and presented to the NZEI Te Riu Roa (NZEI) and the Post Primary Teachers' Association / Te Wehengarua (PPTA) on 11 December 2025. A ballot of the NZEI and PPTA members returned a majority vote to ratify the collective agreement on 18 December. This benefits over 140 area school principals.
Key features
A total increase to the U-grade remuneration component of 4.7% in the first 12 months for the 30-month term:
A 2.5% increase on base rates from 18 December 2025
A further 2.1% increase on base rates from 18 December 2026
An extension of the U-grade remuneration component maximum from U16 to U19 (increase of 3 grades).
Introduction of an NCEA Change Implementation Allowance: $6,000 per annum (paid fortnightly), to recognise the significant work principals do to lead the changes in our national secondary school qualification.
An increase to the Area School Principals Payment by $1,500 phased over two years.
An increase to the Career Structure Payment by $1,500 (Stage 1: $5,214, Stage 2: $8,928, Stage 3: $12,643).
A Mentoring Allowance of $5,000 per annum for principals involved in the Aspiring and Beginning Principals Programme.
Recognition of service for charter school employees returning to state schools.
A new definition of “area school” to apply from 28 January 2026, and an agreement for the parties to work together during the term of the agreement to review coverage.
The proposed Terms of Settlement, including other elements of the offer can be found here.
