Childcare options in Puketapu

Te Kōhanga Reo

The kōhanga reo movement is a unique initiative based on total immersion in Māori language and values with the aim of passing on Māori culture to future generations.

Kōhanga reo emphasise the revitalisation of the culture through te reo Māori and are dependent on the active participation of the whole whānau. The kaupapa of kōhanga reo aims to strengthen whānau capabilities in cultural, social, economic, spiritual and political matters. Education, health and wellbeing are inherent within all aspects of the kaupapa. The prime focus is the whānau – its collective development, growth, accountability and wellbeing set within a Māori cultural context.

Kōhanga reo do not regard tamariki in isolation, but as important members of the whānau. The kōhanga reo philosophy is that tamariki will benefit when whānau successfully operate according to the kaupapa. Tamariki are an integral part of whānau development.

The following key goals are the foundation of te kōhanga reo kaupapa established in 1982:

• total immersion in te reo Māori me ōna tikanga in daily operations
• whānau decision-making, management and responsibility
• accountability
• health and wellbeing of mokopuna and whānau.

The key goals of te kōhanga reo assure that there will be:

• security in te reo Māori
• a supportive, caring environment for mokopuna
• whānau (collective) sharing of responsibilities, knowledge and expertise
• greater respect and appreciation of each other.

Puketapu Preschool is a rural, community-based Early Childhood Education Centre situated in the heart of Puketapu. 

The preschool is committed to provide quality education care for 2 – 5 year olds. Located 5 minutes from Taradale, the centre is currently licensed for 27 children, educating children at a 1:9 ratio. Our rural setting is nestled alongside our local farming community and the local primary school Puketapu School. The teaching team pride themselves in being welcoming and inclusive to all children, families and whanau. We strive to build the foundations for our children to become capable, confident life-long learners in our beautiful, well-resourced centre. 

We offer a wide variety of learning experiences in which children are encouraged to make choices and participate in all areas of the curriculum. We believe each child is a unique individual with their own personality and way of learning, and our aim is to provide a safe and stimulating environment for the growth and development of young children in our care.