Our kindergartens offer a child-led, learning through play philosophy that enables tamariki to grow at their own pace.
As partners of Te Tiriti o Waitangi we are committed to growing an environment that strengthens te ao Māori.
We teach our tamariki to be kaitiaki o te taiao, guardians of our natural environment.
Central Kids has 47 kindergartens in 26 towns across the central North Island, with a range of opening hours depending on the needs of the community they serve. Some are all ages kindergartens, enrolling tamariki from 0-6 years of age.
Find a kindergarten near you
Central Kids kindergartens benefit from being part of non-profit association that's dedicated to ensuring every tamaiti has access to early childhood education. Our board and leadership team provide direction and expertise to ensure our kindergartens thrive.
Meet the leadership team
Central Kids is a great place to start or grow your career in early learning, with opportunities for kaiako (teachers) at every level, tokotū whakahaere (administrators), kaiwhakaako (head teachers), social support, corporate services and leadership roles.
Join our team
Mātauranga Ake is the Central Kids social support team. The team provides free wrap around support and guidance for whānau, because we believe building strong foundations for whānau is key to giving tamariki the best start in life.
"My choice of kindergartens have not came easily. With no background knowledge of centres it was difficult. The welcoming feeling brought into this centre came in the early stages and the warm reception followed by the ladys who care and nurture our children daily, was extremely positive and caring. I knew on our first visit this was the place where I felt safe leaving my daughter. Being a single parent, all staff ensured my safety and care by their actions. After nearly two years here, it's the best decision made. I'm thankful to all the lovely ladies who take care of the children here. The tantrums, change of character, toilet training, encouraging eating and more importantly the patient bonds created between the teachers and children. Thank you kindly."