Nau mai, welcome to our place. We celebrate and embrace Te Ao Māori and the many cultures of our whānau. Kindness, respect, and inclusion are at the heart of everything we do — we uplift the mana of others, care for our places and belongings, and thrive in our learning through fun and connection.

We value strong, respectful relationships with whānau and our wider community, and believe these connections are key to helping tamariki grow into confident, capable learners. Our teaching supports children to develop the skills, knowledge, and attitudes they need to thrive — not only in school, but as valued and contributing members of their community.

Motueka South Kindergarten is a purpose-built centre located at the southern end of Motueka, sharing a site with Motueka South School. Our close proximity to the school provides tamariki with a sense of familiarity and connection, especially as many go on to continue their learning journey there once they turn five.

We’re proud of the strong relationships we have within our community — not only with Motueka South School, but also with St Peter Chanel School, St John’s, and the Jack Inglis Hospital. Regular excursions to the nearby estuary walkway and local places of interest enrich our programme and deepen children's connection to the world around them.

And of course, no mention of our environment would be complete without Bella — our much-loved kindergarten cat. Bella adopted us many years ago and is very much a part of our kindergarten whānau. She greets children in the mornings, joins us on school walks, and can often be found curled up in a sunny spot for a snooze.

At Motueka South Kindergarten, we recognise that every child is on their own unique learning journey. Our kaiako thoughtfully plan a programme that supports tamariki to grow socially, emotionally, and intellectually through rich, engaging experiences.

We help children develop essential social skills like taking turns, cooperating, sharing, and problem-solving. Tamariki are supported to listen to others, express their feelings, understand different perspectives, and build strong, respectful relationships.

Our environment nurtures early literacy through language-rich conversations, storytelling, music, puppetry, and dramatic play. Children have access to a wide range of creative tools and materials to explore mark-making and the use of symbols. Te reo Māori is woven naturally into our programme as a living and relevant language, enriching children’s understanding of culture and communication.

Maths, science, and problem-solving are explored through puzzles, construction, messy play, and experiences with counting, grouping, and comparing. Time spent outdoors and in the community offers further opportunities for exploration, discovery, and connection with the natural world.

Our programme encourages curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning—laying the foundation for a smooth transition to school and beyond.

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.

Children can start at Motueka South Kindergarten from age two. We're open Monday and Friday, 8:30am–2:45pm, and Tuesday to Thursday, 8:30am–2:30pm. Our kindergarten operates all year including school holidays, but are closed during 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 Motueka South Kindergarten.