There's relief restrictions on teacher-student contact could soon be dialled back

Current rules allow physical restraint only when the safety of others is at serious and imminent risk.

The education sector's calling for the rules to be relaxed, with some schools reportedly telling teachers they're not allowed to give a child a hug, for fear of falling foul of the rules.

Education Minister Chris Hipkins said last year that the balance isn't quite right.. and sources say he's ready to put proposed changes to Cabinet in the next week or two.

Te Tai Tokerau Principals' Association Pat Newman says the rules are not working, and are an impediment to the relationship between teacher and student.