Tapawera Kindergarten

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

Where we are

40 Main Road
Tapawera 7096

(Behind Tapawera Area School)

021 0878 8070
tapawerakindergarten@ntk.org.nz

Hours

Monday: 8.45am - 3.00pm
Tuesday: 8.45am - 3.00pm
Wednesday: 8.45am - 3.00pm
Thursday: 8.45am - 3.00pm
Friday: 8.45am - 3.00pm

 

Welcome to Tapawera Kindergarten

Nau mai, haere mai ki tō tātou hāpori ako o Tapawera – welcome to our Tapawera learning community.

We are a small, close-knit kindergarten providing early childhood education and care for tamariki and their whānau from Tapawera, Dovedale, Glenhope, St Arnaud, and the surrounding valleys.

At Tapawera Kindergarten, we recognise the unique journey of every tamaiti (child). We see each child as taonga – a treasure – and our role is to support and prepare them for their lifelong learning journey.

Our Team

  • Gina Head

    Head Teacher

  • Lisa Hewett

    Kaiako 

  • Tami Wi

    Teacher Aide

  • Geoff Persen

    Administrator

  • Dyneta Hebberd

    Kaiako

  • Our philosophy is guided by four key values:

    Whanaungatanga – Relationships
    Tamariki are part of our community that fosters respectful reciprocal relationships.

    Whakamana – Empowerment
    Tamariki have their mana protected and empowered to develop a positive view of themselves as a confident and capable learner.

    Akoranga – Learning through Play
    Through play, tamariki develop the learning dispositions of curiosity, perserverance, resilience and courage.

    Kaitiakitanga – Guardianship
    Tamariki connect with nature, community and the wider world.

  • Our small, rural setting allows tamariki to experience the beauty and uniqueness of our natural environment. We create spaces that encourage exploration, discovery, and connection to the land, while also reflecting the strengths and interests of our local community.

  • At Tapawera Kindergarten, learning is play-based and shaped by the interests of tamariki. Our kaiako (teachers) provide open-ended resources, experiences, and opportunities that nurture each child’s individual learning journey while fostering collaboration and connection.

    Regular outdoor play and engagement with our local environment are an important part of our programme, helping tamariki to develop confidence, resilience, and a deep respect for Papatūānuku (the earth).

  • 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 Tapawera Kindergarten, children can begin their learning journey with us from the age of two. We’re open Monday to Friday, 7:45am to 3:00pm. Our kindergarten operates from mid-January through to late December, with a break 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 Tapawera Kindergarten.