David Seymour's preparing to take a harder line on the parents of chronically absent kids.  

As the Associate Education Minister, Seymour's been tasked with tackling increasing levels of absenteeism in schools across the country.  

Regular attendance is classed as being in school more than 90-percent of a term. 

He says he's investigating whether the power to fine the parents of absent kids should be used more often. 

Chris Abercrombie, Acting President of the Post-Primary Teachers Association, told Mike Hosking that he’s not sure if fining parents is the answer. 

He thinks making sure that the needs of students are met would be more effective in getting students to school. 

Abercrombie said it could be something as simple as making sure they have a uniform or sending around a van to pick up students. 

LISTEN ABOVE