Fixed Term Kaiako – Wakatipu

The kindergarten is located at the base of the Skyline Gondola in Queenstown. The setting is purpose built with spacious indoor and outdoor areas that invite inquiry and exploration. Exploring the local context on regular excursions supports Tamariki to have strong connections to their local context aligning to the explorative and active nature of the community.

The light-filled indoor spaces are thoughtfully equipped with resources that support children’s interests and encourage self-directed learning. Tamariki find comfortable spots for quiet activities as well as areas perfect for group play and collaboration with friends.

In the Big Backyard, tamariki develop practical skills and confidence by using real tools under close supervision. This hands-on experience helps them learn about making safe choices while building their independence and problem-solving abilities.

Start Date/Hours of Work

This position is fixed term, 11 months beginning 19 January through until 18 December 2026.

This position is 40 hours each week, worked as follows:

Contact hours:

8.30am – 2.30pm Monday – Friday

With an additional 12 hours and 30 minutes professional time each week.

Job Description and Person Specification

Job Description & Person Specification – Kaiako, Wakatipu

When applying for the position, the application form below will ask you to describe your overall suitability for the position, focusing on the first 4 key attributes from the job description and person specification. For this position, the 4 key attributes are; 

1. A proven record in establishing strong professional, reciprocal relationships with kaiako, whānau, children and the wider learning community as the foundation of placing the learner at the centre.
2. An ability to work within a collaborative teaching team which has a shared leadership approach including examples of practice to share.
3. Energy and enthusiasm, someone who is enthusiastic about continued learning for themselves, shows initiative, can articulate their own knowledge and listen to other points of view, is open and responsive to new pedagogy.
4. A wise, intentional practitioner with a proven approach to supporting positive learning outcomes for tamariki including an excellent working knowledge of Te Whāriki.

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Remuneration

The terms and conditions, including base salary, for this position is set by the relevant collective agreement. The base salary for trained and registered teachers will range from $61,329 to $103,086 per annum, pro rata,  depending on applicant’s qualifications and experience. 

Individuals actual base salary will be established by a salary assessment once a role is confirmed. Please refer to the Remuneration section of the FAQs on our website for more information. 

Apply Now 

Please complete the below Head Teacher/Teacher Application Form prior to the closing date of 4.00pm Wednesday, 3 December 2025   

Please note: All referee reports must also be completed and submitted prior to the closing date.   

To be eligible to apply, you must:

• Hold a current practicing certificate with the Teaching Council of Aotearoa
• Have a level 7 or higher teaching qualification endorsed in Early Childhood Education or Primary (or have had your international qualifications assessed by NZQA to meet this requirement)
• Have a current first aid certificate or be able to obtain one prior to beginning the role.
• Must be living in and legally entitled to work in New Zealand – NZ / Aust Citizenship, NZ Permanent Residency or Open Work Visa. Please do not apply if you are out of NZ or if seeking visa sponsorship.