Strawberry Garden Childcare

01/09/2026

There is something so special about watching our tamariki get their hands into the soil and discover the magic of gardening! From planting seeds and watering our garden to watching tiny seedlings grow, our tamariki are developing a deep connection with te taiao – the natural world.

At Strawberry Garden, our garden is more than just a place to grow vegetables and flowers — it is a place where tamariki can wonder, explore, nurture and learn together. Through these hands-on experiences, they develop working theories about how plants grow, where our kai comes from, and what living things need to thrive.

Gardening provides beautiful opportunities for kaitiakitanga, as tamariki learn to care for and protect our environment. They are discovering that they have an important role in looking after the whenua, caring for living things and making sustainable choices.

These experiences strongly connect with Te Whāriki, particularly Mana Whenua | Belonging, as tamariki develop a sense of connection and responsibility to their place, and Mana Atua | Wellbeing, as they experience the joy and wellbeing that comes from connecting with nature.

Our garden also reflects our Strawberry Garden philosophy — learning through meaningful, real-life experiences, nurturing relationships, fostering curiosity and giving our tamariki opportunities to be active participants in their learning

01/09/2026

Caring for One Another – Tuakana–Teina in Action

Sometimes the most meaningful learning happens in the simplest of moments. A beautiful example of tuakana–teina as an older tamaiti noticed his younger friend was having difficulty putting on his shoes.

With patience and kindness, the older child supported his younger friend to put his shoes on, encouraging him along the way. His actions showed such a wonderful sense of manaakitanga — caring for and supporting another person.

For our younger tamaiti, having an older friend take the time to help created a sense of security, connection and belonging. He was able to experience that he is surrounded by people who care for him and are there to support him. For our older tamaiti, this was an opportunity to demonstrate leadership, empathy, responsibility and confidence as he shared his knowledge and skills with another.

This beautiful interaction reflects whanaungatanga, as our tamariki strengthen their relationships and connections with one another.

At Strawberry Garden, we value these authentic relationships and recognise that children are both learners and teachers. Through tuakana–teina, tamariki have opportunities to learn from and with one another, developing a strong sense of belonging and connection within our learning community.

This connects with Te Whāriki | Mana Tangata – Contribution, where tamariki experience an environment where they are encouraged to contribute, care for others and develop a sense of responsibility. It also links with Mana Whenua – Belonging, as tamariki experience a place where they know they are valued, cared for and an important part of our Strawberry Garden whānau.

What a beautiful reminder that learning isn't always about what we teach our tamariki — sometimes it is found in the kindness they show each other.

10/08/2026

Frosty mornings have opened up a world of possibilities for our tamariki. Upon discovering ice one particular morning, the children observed, touched and shared ideas about how it had formed. They noticed the different shapes and sizes of the ice and explored what it felt like as they held it in their hands.

Through this hands-on experience, the children were curious explorers, developing and sharing their working theories as they made sense of the natural world around them. They also extended their social and communication skills as they shared their discoveries, listened to one another and exchanged ideas.

10/08/2026

There is something special about slowing down, getting cosy and enjoying a good book together basking in the warmth a sunny spot can provide. These little moments of connection, friendship and shared discovery are where so much meaningful learning happens.

E hoa mā, ina te ora o te tangata - "My friends, this is the essence of life".

Learning together, growing together — Mana Reo | Communication & Mana Tangata | Contribution

29/07/2026

WE WANT YOU!

We're looking for a qualified registered kaiako who believes childhood should be filled with connection, joy, mud pies, messy discoveries, big conversations and moments that can't be planned.

At Strawberry Garden, we believe the environment is the third teacher. Every space is thoughtfully created to spark curiosity, invite wonder and give children the freedom to slow down, explore and simply be children.

What you'll find here:

• Extended Pay Parity
• A boutique centre where every child is truly known
• Supportive leadership that will invest in you
• Beautiful natural environments you'll be proud to teach in
• A positive team culture where everyone belongs
• The freedom to contribute ideas and make a real difference

If you're looking for a centre where children come first, teachers are valued, and every day has purpose, we'd love to meet you.

Come and see why so many people walk through our gates and instantly feel at home.

Contact Vanessa at: [email protected]

24/06/2026

11/06/2026

Are you looking for more than just another teaching job?
-A place where children are truly known.
-A team that values kindness, calmness and genuine connection.
-Beautiful, nature-rich environments and unhurried days.
-Supportive leadership and Extended Pay Parity.
-A warm, homely centre where teachers are valued too.

Look no further, we are looking for a qualified, registered kaiako to join our wonderful team.... enquire today at [email protected]

18/05/2026

A glimpse into the calm, nature-rich spaces of Strawberry Garden.
Our outdoor environment invites tamariki to explore, connect, imagine, and learn through play, with beauty and belonging woven into each day.

07/05/2026

Side by side in the sandpit, friendships and connections are beginning to grow.

Through shared play, problem solving, and exploring the outdoors together, our Pēpē tamariki are developing a strong sense of whanaungatanga, learning that they are part of a caring and connected community.

At Strawberry Garden, our nature-rich outdoor spaces invite curiosity, collaboration, and learning through play.