The Catholic Education Office and a Victoria University academic are joining calls for educators to focus on the study of religion in primary schools.
Some academics, principals and parents argue that the study of the world's main religions would promote understanding and tolerance.
The Catholic Education Office says it is vital for New Zealanders to study religion so they can continue to play a part in world politics.
Professor Paul Morris of Victoria University's religious studies programme says such study will prepare people to live in an increasingly diverse 21st century New Zealand.
Professor Morris says the country is increasingly diverse and young New Zealanders need to be able to cope with that.
