Find Our Kindergarten
177 Bowhill Rd
North New Brighton
Christchurch
New Zealand
Why Choose Us
At the heart of our kindergarten is the philosophy ‘ako me te tuakana teina’ – a reciprocal learning journey where tamariki, whānau and kaiako are both teachers and learners. This approach creates authentic learning partnerships that strengthen connections between kindergarten and home.
Inside, you’ll find an environment designed to nurture every aspect of your child’s development. Cozy reading corners and art spaces allow tamariki to feel comfortable exploring their creativity, while dynamic play areas create natural opportunities for making friendships through shared discoveries and adventures. We encourage children to find a space that feels just right for them, whether they’re seeking gentle moments of concentration or eager to join in group activities.
Outside, our Big Backyard encourages appropriate risk-taking through tree climbing and the use of real tools, helping tamariki develop confidence while learning to make safe choices. Through respecting one another and our world, we build a community where passion for learning comes naturally.
We take pride in our strong relationship with our local kura, making transitions smoother when children are ready for school. These connections help tamariki feel confident as they take the next steps in their learning 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.
What Families Say
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A proudly New Zealand owned and operated not-for-profit kindergarten association with over 110 years of kiwi heritage
