Education Ministry data shows three and a half thousand kids have been missing from the education system for more than a year since 2022.
Lead Principal of the Manurewa Attendance Service Cathy Chalmers told Heather du Plessis-Allan having to find these kids is part of the problem.
She says a multi-agency approach is needed, as there are normally other issues that contribute to disenrollment or low attendance.
The Government says it's putting information-sharing agreements in place, between agencies like Kainga Ora and the Health Ministry

Mike's Minute: It's still our year
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Steve Price: Australian correspondent on One Nation looking to bring down the number of international students
07:12

Commentary Box: Andrew Saville and Jason Pine discuss the All Blacks' loss and the Warriors' upcoming clash against the Knights
11:27