Grove Street Kindergarten

Up to 30 hours free • Play-based learning • Transition to school • Enviroschools Silver

Whakataukī

He taonga te mokopuna, kia whangaia, kia tipu, kia rea
A child is a treasure, to be nurtured, to grow, to flourish

Where we are

50A Grove Street
The Wood, Nelson 7010

03 548 8600
GroveStkindergarten@ntk.org.nz

Hours

Monday: 8.30am - 2.45pm
Tuesday: 8.30am - 2.45pm
Wednesday: 8.30am - 2.45pm
Thursday: 8.30am - 2.45pm
Friday: 8.30am - 2.45pm

 

Welcome to Grove Street Kindergarten

Tucked behind the Grove Reserve and Toy Library, Grove Street Kindergarten offers a peaceful, nature-rich setting right in the heart of The Wood—just moments from central Nelson. Our spacious outdoor area, complete with animals, established trees, and thriving gardens, brings a country feel to the city.

We strive to create a welcoming, supportive environment where tamariki and whānau feel at home. Our strong sense of community is built on care, connection, and shared learning.

Regular excursions take us into the heart of our neighbourhood—to the Suter Art Gallery, Museum, Library, Centre of NZ, and local schools. These outings help tamariki build confidence and a sense of belonging in the wider world.

Our transition-to-school group meets weekly, engaging in planned experiences that support oral language, literacy, numeracy, and physical development.

Whānau are welcome any time—we deeply value your involvement, whether it’s helping in sessions, joining excursions, or sharing your knowledge and skills. You know your child best, and we see you as partners in their learning journey.

We embrace a mixed-age model where tuakana–teina relationships (older tamariki supporting younger ones) are at the heart of our teaching. Our experienced kaiako offer a rich and varied programme grounded in both consistency and challenge.

As committed Treaty partners, we honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi and embed a strong bicultural curriculum that supports tamariki to grow as culturally confident citizens of Aotearoa.

Our Team

  • Melissa Clough

    Head Teacher (Acting)

  • Karen Tait

    Teacher

  • Stephanie Smith

    Teacher

  • Ruth Steele

    Teacher

  • Chris Moriarty

    Teacher

  • Gabe Hoeksema

    Teacher

  • Jen Blanchet

    Administrator

  • At Grove Street Kindergarten, we believe learning should be joyful and meaningful. We create an environment where curiosity is nurtured, creativity is encouraged, and tamariki are free to explore, discover, and challenge themselves.

    Respect and care—for people and the environment—are at the heart of everything we do. Our philosophy is grounded in the values of manaakitanga (kindness and care for others), whanaungatanga (belonging and connection), and kaitiakitanga (guardianship of the natural world).

    We offer rich, authentic play experiences that make learning fun, active, and engaging. Our strong connection to nature supports tamariki to develop a deep appreciation for Papatūānuku and their role as kaitiaki.

    Above all, we aim to provide a nurturing and stimulating space where every child feels safe, supported, and empowered to thrive.

  • We’re tucked away behind Grove Reserve, with a spacious, well-planted outdoor area that includes a large playground, friendly animals, and beautiful established trees—offering a peaceful, country feel in the heart of the city.

  • Active Little Learners
    Every second Tuesday, tamariki enjoy fun, movement-based learning sessions with Anita from Active Little Learners.

    Wheels Day
    Each Friday, tamariki are welcome to bring their wheels—bikes, scooters, or ride-ons—for active outdoor fun.

    Excursions in Our Local Community
    We regularly explore local places of interest, including:
    • Local primary schools
    • The Suter Art Gallery
    • Nelson Museum
    • The Centre of New Zealand
    • Parks and nearby attractions

    Transition to School Group
    Our oldest tamariki take part in planned activities on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays to support their confidence, independence, and readiness for school.

  • Most sessions are free under the Ministry of Education’s 20 Hours ECE policy. Some fees may apply for additional hours or children under two. Family contributions are requested to cover extra activities.

    Learn more about fees and funding

  • Nau mai, haere mai – a big welcome to all tamariki and whānau.

    At Grove Street Kindergarten, children can begin their learning journey with us from the age of two. We’re open Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 2:45pm, for all children over two years old. Our kindergarten operates all year but close over the Christmas period.

    Before your child officially starts, we encourage three settling visits. These help tamariki feel comfortable in their new environment and give you time to build a relationship with their key teacher — supporting a smooth and positive transition into kindergarten life.

    We look forward to meeting you and sharing our wonderful kindergarten with you.

    Read the latest Education Review Office report for Grove Street Kindergarten.