Nestled in our local community of Waltham, Pīwakawaka Early Learning Centre was established with a vision to create a nurturing, nature-inspired learning environment where tamariki can flourish. Named after the Pīwakawaka (fantail) – a curious, playful native bird – our centre embodies these same qualities in our approach to early childhood education.
Centre Vision & Values
About Pīwakawaka Early Learning Centre
Our Story
Our Philosophy
At Pīwakawaka, we believe that each tamariki is unique with their own strengths, interests, and learning style. Our tamariki-centered approach respects these individual differences while fostering a strong sense of belonging, connection to nature, and community.
We embrace Te Whāriki, New Zealand’s early childhood curriculum framework, weaving its principles throughout our programme. Our dedicated kaiako create opportunities for tamariki to explore, discover, and develop at their own pace in a supportive environment that honors Aotearoa’s bicultural heritage.
What Makes Us Special
- Small Group Sizes: We maintain intimate group settings to ensure each tamariki receives individual attention and care.
- Nature Connection: Our learning environments incorporate natural elements that inspire curiosity and respect for the natural world.
- Community Focus: We build strong partnerships with whānau and our wider community to create meaningful learning experiences.
- Experienced Kaiako: Our qualified teaching team brings passion, expertise, and a genuine love for early childhood education
Our Centre’s Vision:
At Pīwakawaka Early Learning Centre, our vision is to empower all tamariki to become confident and competent learners, igniting their love of learning and curiosity about the world around them. We are committed to providing an environment where every child feels valued, supported, and encouraged to grow to their full potential. By fostering an atmosphere of exploration, creativity, and inquiry, we aim to inspire a lifelong passion for learning. Through a collaborative approach, where kaiako (educators), tamariki, and whānau (families) work together, we ensure that each child’s learning experience is rich, meaningful, and tailored to their individual needs and interests. We believe that strong, positive relationships between home and centre are key to a child’s development, and we work closely with whānau to create a nurturing, inclusive, and engaging learning environment for all. Our goal at Pīwakawaka Early Learning Centre is to cultivate a space where tamariki feel safe to express themselves, explore new ideas, and build strong foundations for their future success.
We see you, We hear you, We know you!
Our Centre’s Values:
Empathy for others – Manaakitanga
Respect for the environment – Kaitiakitanga
Making positive contributions – Kotahitanga
A passion for learning – Ako
Active participation – Whānaungatanga
Our Centre’s Learning Priorities:
- Wellbeing and Belonging
- Emotional and Social Competence
- Sustainability
- Creativity, Communicating and Courage
- Early Literacy and Numeracy
- Science, The Arts and Technology
- Learning Through Play
We are proud to operate with 100% qualified kaiako, who bring a diverse range of experience from both early childhood and primary education. Our teachers create meaningful connections with tamariki and whānau, fostering a strong sense of belonging and partnership. With a deep commitment to ongoing professional development, our kaiako continually refine their skills and knowledge to provide the highest standard of care and education. This dedication ensures that every child’s learning journey is supported by passionate, skilled, and knowledgeable educators who truly care about their growth and well-being.
At Pīwakawaka, children thrive in a learning environment where biculturalism and multiculturalism are truly lived values. We honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi and celebrate the richness that every culture brings to our community. Our approach is inclusive, ensuring that tamariki develop an understanding and appreciation of both Māori and Pākehā cultures, as well as the diverse backgrounds of their peers. Through this, we foster respect, empathy, and a sense of belonging for all tamariki, preparing them to embrace and celebrate diversity in the wider world. To learn more about our values, curriculum, or to book a visit, please don’t hesitate to contact us — we’d love to hear from you.
Whether it’s stories in the sun, messy play in the sandpit, cuddles at rest time, or music-filled afternoons, every day is filled with joy, care, and discovery. Our tamariki are encouraged to explore their creativity, develop social skills, and build strong relationships with their peers and kaiako. Each moment is an opportunity for growth, laughter, and learning in a nurturing environment where every child feels valued and supported.
Class Sessions
- Monday - Friday
- 8:00am - 4:30pm
Location Address
- 40 Shakespeare Road, Waltham, Christchurch 8023
Our Office Hour
- Monday - Friday
- 8:00am - 4:30pm