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Prefects play an important role at many New Zealand schools, especially those schools with strong boarding rolls. Initially prefects played a major roll in running the schools and even in discipline. The prefects now play a much more limited, but still important roll. There precise details vary from school to school, but is generally greatest in those schools with strong British influences.
The prefects tend to play a particularly important role in the boarding schools where they assist in running the boarding houses as well as other school functions. Housemasters/mistresses often rely on their seniors in running the house, including assigning a varieties of duties such as housekeeping, an ongoing problem in any house occupied by 20-30 boys or girls. Other duties: [PB: ?????]
The schools view the prefect system as an important part of the overall educational process, believing that the opportunity to earn and exercise authority is a valuable learning experience. Schools generally have training programs for the senior students that are to serve as prefects. These programs vary from school to school. Often they are conducted at leadership camps in conjunction with the school's outdoor education program. In school programs are also held. Takapuna Grammar, for example, hold an annual "Prefect Day". The program is designed to help the new prefects about their responsibilities. The program touches on goal setting, achievement, role modelling, leadership, and expectations that the prefects must live up to. Speakers often include community leaders and former head boys/girls. Question and answer, truth and lie activities are conducted. Threatening situations which may be encountered are acted out and methods suggested to deal with such situations.
Several schools in recent years have significantly changed the traditional prefect system. Schools are increasingly introducing elected student councils. The representatives of the students in school councils are being given increasing responsibilities.
