Kaiako - Faulkner Bush Kindergarten
Full time | Permanent
Nelson Tasman Kindergartens is seeking an enthusiastic, caring, and motivated kaiako to join the foundation teaching team at Faulkner Bush Kindergarten – our exciting new centre opening term 1, 2026.
Located within the beautiful Faulkner Bush Reserve in Wakefield, the kindergarten will offer tamariki daily opportunities to explore and learn in nature. This natural setting supports our commitment to environmental education, te ao Māori, and a holistic early childhood curriculum.
Our rich, play-based programme supports tamariki aged 2–6 years and is underpinned by values of respect, resilience, fun, challenge, and kaitiakitanga. We believe tamariki thrive in environments where they are deeply connected to people, place, and the natural world.
We are looking for a qualified kaiako who:
Is passionate about early childhood education and creating meaningful learning experiences for tamariki
Embraces the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and integrates te reo me ngā tikanga Māori authentically into practice
Enjoys working collaboratively as part of a team
Is reflective, self-motivated, and shows strong initiative
Is excited by the opportunity to help shape a new kindergarten from the ground up
New graduates are encouraged to apply. This is a unique opportunity to be part of a new service grounded in strong values, community connections, and environmental learning.
Why Nelson Tasman Kindergartens?
We are a not-for-profit kindergarten association, with 23 kindergartens across the region
We offer extensive professional support, including Senior Education Advisors, a committed management team, and admin support at every kindergarten.
15 professional days and 6 weeks annual leave each year.
Our organisation is an Enviroschools partner, reflecting our commitment to sustainability
We support whānau with free parenting resources and value strong home–kindergarten partnerships
You'll be part of a vibrant team of over 140 passionate, qualified kaiako
For all other collective benefits please visit: Kindergarten teachers' collective and individual employment agreements - Ministry of Education
Please send your CV, and application form to amy.katipa@ntk.org.nz
Applications closes 11 January 2026.