Ngai Tahu offered school a third time

Watlington Intermediate has been offered for sale to Ngai Tahu for a third time.

The Ministry of Education confirmed yesterday that the former Timaru school had been offered again to Ngai Tahu but would not reveal what the new price was.

Watlington closed in 2004 after the Labour Government's review of schools.

Last year the property went on the market at $2.435 million, but earlier this year that figure was reduced to $2m.

Ministry spokeswoman Jodi Ikaka said the ministry was not able to disclose the latest Right of First Refusal figure given to Ngai Tahu.

Ms Ihaka said the offer-back period was due to expire today, and if Ngai Tahu decided not to purchase the school, the property would be relisted on the open market. The property has languished on the market for more than a year, despite interest from another Timaru school.

Timaru Christian School expressed an interest in buying the property to cater for its increasing roll, but principal Shaun Brooker said the $2m price tag was unrealistic.

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