The access to period products initiative aims to provide free period products to children and young people in all state and state-integrated schools and kura across New Zealand during 2021.

Periods are a fact of life for half the population. Despite this, young people don’t always have access to the products they need to feel comfortable at school, engage in their learning, and manage what should be a normal and healthy part of life.

Poor access to period products can affect students’ attendance and engagement at school. Students also miss out on sporting and cultural activities and can feel embarrassed and ashamed about not being supported to manage their periods. This affects their achievement and wellbeing.

Providing access to free period products to those who need it in all state and state-integrated schools and kura will:

• reduce barriers to access and improve school attendance, sports involvement and tertiary participation
• improve child and youth wellbeing
• reduce financial strain on families and whānau experiencing poverty/material hardship, and
• promote positive gender norms and reduce stigmatisation of menstruation

We will have them at the following stations for students to access these products:

HauoraReceptionDean's RoomGym OfficeDeputy Principal's Office