Concern over an increasing number of children bringing weapons to school. 

Figures released under the Official Information Act show 526 students were stood down, suspended, or excluded for using or having a weapon at school last year. 

It's an 80% rise on 2018. 

Secondary Principals' Association President Louise Anaru told Mike Hosking that in a vast majority of cases, children have no intent to use the weapon - but regardless, the matter needs to be treated seriously. 

She says it’s important to get the message out that they can cause harm, and to take a real strong stance on it. 

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