Find Our Kindergarten
36 Portsmouth Street
Aranui
Christchurch
New Zealand
Why Choose Us
Your child will discover a welcoming haven at Kidsfirst Portsmouth Street, where community spirit thrives through meaningful connections and support. We embrace the diverse languages and cultures of our community, welcoming whānau involvement in ways that work for each family – whether lending a hand or simply joining us for part of our day.
In peaceful, light-filled spaces, children develop natural confidence as they explore and learn at their own pace. Our distinctive calm atmosphere allows young minds to flourish, building social awareness and kindness toward others. Outside, a beautiful community mural sets the scene for nature-based adventures, where tamariki develop kaitiakitanga through caring for gardens, observing seasonal changes, and forming deep connections with the natural world.
Fully qualified, registered kaiako create an environment rich in opportunities for discovery and growth. They understand each child’s unique interests and learning style, nurturing their curiosity while building strong foundations for future learning. Through thoughtful guidance, children are empowered to set their own challenges and celebrate their achievements alongside their peers.
Local whānau connect and support each other in meaningful ways, sharing resources and forming friendships that extend beyond the kindergarten gates. The kindergarten’s community support initiatives, including sharing of food, clothing, and other essentials, help build lasting relationships within the Aranui community.
Nau mai, tauti 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
Growing together outdoors
With Waitangi Day landing on a Tuesday, it’s a great time to sneak in a long weekend with friends and whānau. At Kidsfirst Portsmouth Street they got in early, setting up a campsite in their Big Backyard. The day was full of great ideas, new experiences and camping memories, with a picnic morning tea on the grass. Whanaungatanga and manaakitanga are alive and well at the kindergarten, where everybody works hard to foster a sense of belonging. Ka rawe, Kidsfirst Portsmouth Street 🌳⛺️☀️
A big week with EIGHT birthdays
A big rā whānau ki a koe (happy birthday) to eight kindergartens across our Kidsfirst network. Portsmouth Street, Redwood, Trengrove, Karoro, Hawthornden, Hei Hei, Halswell and Avonhead are all celebrating this week! It’s the perfect occasion to take a look back on some historic photos of the kindy’s over the years…
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A proudly New Zealand owned and operated not-for-profit kindergarten association with over 110 years of kiwi heritage
