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'We can look and learn from lessons of the past' - Government signals overhaul of NZ mental health system

Jacinda Ardern today told Christchurch residents about the plans.

An overhaul of the mental health system is on the way under the new government, with plans for a ministerial inquiry.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has spent the day telling young Christchurch residents about the plans she is drawing up to give them more mental health support.

In Labour's first 100 days, it's pledging to launch an inquiry into the mental health system.

Health Minister David Clark said he is already getting advice from officials on how to shape the inquiry.

"I want it to be a full ministerial inquiry, that has a real independence about it and a strong public input," Mr Clark said.

"That'll be a full review so we can look and learn from lessons of the past and plot out a course to address the crisis in our mental health system."

The Labour-led Government says it will also re-establish the Mental Health Commission.

They also want to introduce expert nurses at GP practices and provide free counseling for young people.

"We've already said we want to make sure we have a team of 80 professionals who can specialise in helping children in primary school levels," Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said.

National leader Bill English said his party would probably support the inquiry but he doesn't want it to become a precedent for policy decisions.

"Look we probably support them but they shouldn't miss, I hope they're not starting as they mean to go on," Mr English said.

"That somehow the answer to any complex problem is set up a commission or inquiry."

The Mental Health Commission was shut down in 2012 but it will be re-established once the results of that inquiry are released.

"It has an independent mandate to really look over the whole sector, to look at government performance as well, to advocate on behalf of those who are mental health users," Mr Clark said.

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