Find Our Kindergarten
228 Queenspark Drive
Parklands
Christchurch
New Zealand
Why Choose Us
Generations of local whānau have trusted our kindergarten to give tamariki a better start to their early childhood learning and enjoyed the connections and warm welcome of kindy. They return to our kindergarten, drawn by our longstanding reputation and the happy memories created here. Our qualified, registered kaiako work in partnership with whānau, celebrating the languages, cultures and identities that enrich our programme.
Our close relationship with Queenspark School enriches our programme and builds important connections. Senior students visit regularly to share their learning, while regular kapa haka performances bring music and culture to life. These engagements help our tamariki develop confidence in the school environment well before they take that next step.
Inside our light-filled spaces, the artwork creates an ever-changing gallery of learning stories, and the environment reflects the children’s interests while encouraging both independent and collaborative play.
Our magical Big Backyard, marked by our famous tree, provides natural shade and inspiration. Native plantings create perfect settings for storytelling and quiet reflection, while challenging equipment supports physical development.
Under the watchful eye of our kaiako, tamariki get to take age appropriate risks using real tools. This helps them develop practical skills and safety awareness. Our fun-loving atmosphere rings with laughter as children discover their capabilities.
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
