At Pinegrove Kindergarten, we believe in the unique potential of every tamaiti. Guided by our national curriculum, we hold high aspirations for all learners, while recognising that each child grows and develops in their own way.

We nurture curiosity by encouraging tamariki to question, explore, and make sense of the world around them. When children feel confident to wonder, investigate, and connect ideas, their learning becomes rich with possibility.

Our environment reflects our belief in caring for the world around us. We’re fortunate to have a spacious outdoor area, enriched by beautiful established trees that attract native birds — a daily delight for our tamariki.

Lush gardens provide both food and flowers, offering ongoing opportunities for hands-on exploration and learning. Tamariki, whānau, and kaiako work together to care for this special space, creating an environment where children can explore, investigate, play imaginatively, and follow their curiosity.

Throughout our kindergarten, thoughtfully presented resources invite tamariki to engage deeply in their play. Children are encouraged to request additional materials, empowering them to shape their own learning experiences.

At Pinegrove Kindergarten, our teaching and learning is guided by Te Whāriki, the New Zealand early childhood curriculum, and grounded in our own philosophy, which underpins everything we do.

We value sustained, uninterrupted play as a foundation for learning, allowing tamariki to grow as confident, capable learners and strategic thinkers. Our programme celebrates a rich environment of literacy and numeracy, woven naturally into daily experiences.

All weather is good weather here — rain is just another opportunity for fun and exploration. We provide wet weather clothing so tamariki can play comfortably outdoors in all conditions.

Mealtimes are an important part of our day, where we come together as a community. Kaiako see this as a valuable time to connect with tamariki, support learning, and enjoy shared moments over kai.

Our outdoor environment offers endless opportunities for physical exploration. Tamariki can dig and create in the expansive sandpit, challenge themselves on high-quality play equipment, or develop confidence and coordination on our cycle track. We also enjoy regular excursions — from bush walks in Snowdens Bush to visits with our local schools — and love spending time in the adjacent field just beyond our grounds.

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 Pinegrove Kindergarten, children can begin their learning journey with us from the age of two. We’re open Monday to Friday, 8:15am to 2:30pm, for all children over two years old. Our kindergarten operates from mid-January through to late December, with breaks during the school holidays and 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 Pinegrove Kindergarten.