The Government has reallocated almost $200 million from the fees free policies as part of Finance Minister Grant Robertson's push to cull $1 billion of low priority spending.

The money was cut as the enrolments were not as high as the Government was expecting.

The fees free policy was designed to provide access to vocational training, apprenticeships and tertiary study for tens of thousands of people, according to last year's Budget.

It offered a free year of study for students. The package also boosted both student allowances and living cost entitlements for eligible students.

At his pre-Budget speech today, Robertson said he had directed all ministers to cut 1 per cent of their spending in areas that were deemed the lowest priority.

"Out of this, we have identified just over $1 billion worth of spending over the forecast period that is no longer a priority or where the funding allocated is no longer needed."

One area of this underspend, Robertson said, was on the fees-free policy where enrolments have not meeting the Government's forecasts.

The $197 million has been reallocated to implementing reform of the vocational education section – an area that Education Minister Chris Hipkins is in the process of working through.

Robertson said this was an area where many have indicated they want reforms.

"And so do we.

"Put at its most simple, we need to value apprenticeships, trades and workplace training more.

"We need it to be higher quality, more accessible, more coordinated, and more relevant to businesses and regions."

Although the proposals are still being finalised, Robertson said the reprioritisation he has announced is an "initial indication of our commitment to making this work".

He said the issue that many businesses raise with him is the need for more skilled staff. 
"For New Zealand to become a more production nation, it is vital for us to get this right – these reforms are an important step in that direction."