Around 700 to 800 teachers and supporters came out to Invercargill and Gore this morning to protest against what they say is "chronic underfunding" of education. 

Invercargill and Gore formed part of massive nationwide protests this morning as part of the "Back the Teachers" march, which organisers say totalled more than 50,000 in attendance.

The protest is a joint strike action by the New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI) and the New Zealand Post Primary Teachers' Association (PPTA). While secondary and primary teachers face their own unique challenges, organisers say the overarching problem is the same.

NZEI organiser for Southland and South Otago Ainslie Forbes said conservative estimates of the Invercargill turnout was 500 - 600 marchers, while in Gore between 200 - 250 people took part.

Ms Forbes noted a particularly supportive community spirit in Invercargill, where drivers tooted their cars and shop owners came out to clap as marchers passed by.

The Invercargill march looped through the city centre along Tay, Dee, Esk, and Kelvin Streets, while in Gore marchers met at the city's ram statue, and walked by the city's bridge and trout statues.

Ms Forbes said they were grateful for Invercargill residents' patience as they passed through the city's main streets at midday.