Making kura and school websites more accessible

Following the successful launch of the multi-agency Zero Data initiative, over 2,000 kura and school websites have now been added to the updated website portal, which includes an enhanced search function.

The Zero Data website allows access to various education and government websites from a mobile, without using any data allowance. Users do not need data credit; all they need is to have their device turned on.

The Zero Data service is available to anyone using a mobile device connected to the Spark, Skinny, One NZ, 2degrees, Warehouse Mobile, Slingshot or Orcon mobile networks; however the focus is on those with no, or low, data left on their plan.

Conquering the digital divide

For some New Zealanders, the cost of mobile data can be a barrier to accessing essential government, education, health and wellbeing information and digital health services. Those who cannot access information and services often have the highest needs in our communities.

This important initiative supports everyone to have equitable opportunities to participate in society using digital technologies. Enabling free access to school websites supports the Ministry of Education’s response to equitable access and outcomes.

Access to essential websites for people who have no data was an issue brought to a head in 2020 during the Covid-19 response when many services were only accessible digitally and those people without data were at risk of being excluded. 

The Ministry’s chief digital officer, Stuart Wakefield, says, “As government agencies move their services online it is imperative that we ensure all New Zealanders continue to have access to those services.

“The Zero Data initiative is part of a wider effort to close the digital divide and provides citizens with no-cost access to essential government and community websites and is analogous to the 0800 toll-free calling into government call centres.”

Easier to find kura or school information

Schools can search for their website by adding their school website name after /go/ using the following friendly URL format; for example, portal.zero.govt.nz/go/raroa.school.nz.

The focus of Zero Data is on websites that provide information on key government services that support mental health and wellbeing or allow access to other digital government services.

Please note that there may be some limitations when you try to access websites that include content from, or links to, other websites – this is to ensure that only sponsored content is accessed through the portal.

Most schools should now have access, but email support@zero.govt.nz for any enquiries.

Visit the Zero Data website at zero.govt.nz(external link)