Each child is a unique expression of their whānau and whakapapa (ancestry). Within our nurturing environment, tamariki are supported to grow, develop, and flourish.

We are committed to upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi, embedding te reo Māori and tikanga into our programme and everyday practices.

We warmly welcome the diversity of our kindergarten whānau and believe that inclusive, respectful relationships between kaiako, mokopuna, and whānau are essential to supporting each child’s individual learning journey.

Our goal is to ensure all tamariki and whānau have meaningful opportunities to participate and contribute to our thriving community.

We believe learning through play is essential for children’s social, emotional, and physical wellbeing. Our environment is designed to nurture both independence and collaboration, allowing tamariki to explore, create, and connect in their own unique ways.

Our programme encourages engagement with nature, helping tamariki develop deep respect and aroha for Papatūānuku — fostering a lifelong connection to the natural world.

Our daily routine at Nayland Kindergarten promotes inclusion and predictability, creating a welcoming space for all tamariki. Each morning, around 9:40am, we gather for Wa Whāriki/Mat Time, a special welcome for everyone. This is followed by morning tea for our 2- to 3-year-olds, lunch around 11:30am to 12pm, rest time as needed, and an end-of-day mat time at approximately 2:15pm.

Our older tamariki, aged 4 to 6 years, have their own mat time called Te Ōhu Whanake just before morning tea. During this 5 to 10-minute session, we focus on group learning topics like legends and storytelling, literacy, mathematics, and social skills.

We value plenty of unstructured time throughout the day, allowing kaiako to offer a variety of learning experiences that children can join based on their own interests. This creates a natural environment where tamariki can work individually or gather in small groups, collaborating and learning alongside one another. Our kaiako support tamariki by weaving together social and academic learning, while thoughtfully setting up resources that extend and deepen their exploration.

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 Nayland Kindergarten from age two. We're open Monday toFriday, 8:30am–2:45pm (minimum requirement of two days per week). Our kindergarten operates from early January through to late December, with breaks during the public holidays, four Teacher Only Days, and 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 Nayland Kindergarten.