Find Our Kindergarten
23 Fergusson Avenue
Mairehau
Christchurch
New Zealand
Why Choose Us
At Kidsfirst Mairehau, we foster an environment where tamariki naturally develop strong social skills. Our approach goes beyond simple play, focusing on helping children get along well with others, form and maintain meaningful relationships, and respond adaptively in diverse social settings. Fully qualified, registered kaiako support tamariki to build lasting friendships through thoughtful guidance and meaningful play experiences.
The kindergarten’s distinctive atmosphere is immediately felt through the calm and friendly wairua that greets visitors. Inside light-filled spaces, children’s artistic expressions cover our walls, creating a living gallery that celebrates their creativity and learning journeys. We take pride in our comprehensive approach to early learning, with special emphasis on growing literacy, artistic expression, physical skills and ways of interacting with people and the natural world.
Busy tamariki flourish in the Big Backyard, where natural challenges invite exploration and discovery, and create opportunities to build confidence in their growing abilities. Tamariki develop a better understanding of their responsibilities as kaitiaki of the environment around them.
Whānau and caregivers are integral to our community, contributing in many ways. We invite families to share discussions about their children’s aspirations, spend time in our sessions and bring their unique knowledge and strengths to enrich our programme. For those with time to spare, our Kindergarten parent group offers opportunities to make new friendships.
Being so close to two primary schools creates opportunities for connection with older tamariki and the wider community. This supports smooth transitions for tamariki when they are ready to take the next step in their educational journey.
Nau mai, haere mai – make a time to visit us and remember, you’re always welcome at Kidsfirst.
Why Kidsfirst Kindergartens
With over 100 years of proud legacy, Kidsfirst Kindergartens is a not-for-profit organisation that supports and leads kindergartens across Canterbury, the West Coast and Central Otago. Generations of South Island tamariki and whānau have passed through our gates, and we have strong ties to local communities.
Our kindergartens are down to earth places with warm, nurturing teachers with a rich range of resources and environments to explore.
One of the hallmarks of our kindys is that you’re always welcome here – whānau are encouraged to visit and stay, and take part in kindergarten life. We love it when families share their skills, and culture too – our kindergartens are some of the most diverse learning environments around, and children learn best when teachers and whānau work together.
Te Whāriki, the New Zealand Curriculum, guides our teaching and learning programmes, while the kindergarten philosophy underpins all we do. Tamariki learn through play in their own time, through their own interests, guided by trained teachers who are registered with the Teaching Council of New Zealand. You’ll often find our kindergartens located on, or near, local primary schools. Preparation for school and a smooth transition are a key part of the work for our kaiako.
Our kaiako are overseen by Professional Leaders with a focus on quality and ensuring the highest educational standards. Formerly known as the Canterbury Westland Free Kindergarten Association, Kidsfirst – and its kindergartens – consistently receive strong reports from the Education Review Office. You can read more about their assessment of our governing organisation here.
Latest News
Poipoia te kākano puawai
The fun goes on at kindy no matter the weather, and Kidsfirst Mairehau is making the most of its indoor and outdoor spaces. Inside, there’s a focus on creativity, literacy, and sharing with others using these tools. Outside in the Big Backyard, they’re practising perseverance, determination, and learning what it means to lead and follow. Poipoia te kākano puawai – the idea that if you nurture the seed, it will blossom – underlies everything this kindergarten does. Ka pai, Mairehau, and thanks for sharing how you’re making learning fun.
Harikoa 65 Mairehau!
Happy 65th birthday Kidsfirst Mairehau. Tamariki, former and current kaiako, invited guests, whānau and friends all came to the party – remembering days gone by, sharing kai and laughter. Ra whānau ki a koe, Mairehau.
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A proudly New Zealand owned and operated not-for-profit kindergarten association with over 110 years of kiwi heritage
