Hon Chris Carter
Minister of Education
16 April 2008 Media Statement
Minister expresses condolences to school and its community
Education Minister Chris Carter today expressed his profound sympathy for Elim Christian College and its community after
the tragic loss of life at Tongariro National Park.
“This has been a shocking event and my thoughts are with the families of these young people who have so sadly lost their
lives and with school staff, students and the wider school community,” Chris Carter said.
The Minister will visit the school today and speak with the principal on what support government agencies can provide.
The Ministry of Education’s Trauma Incident Team went into the school at 3.30 this morning and will continue to work
with students and teachers for as long as necessary.
“The loss of these young people will be strongly felt by the school and its community but I know they are all pulling
together to support each other through this very difficult time.”
ENDS