Everything you need to know about Heretaunga Park!

What age children do you enrol?

We welcome children from birth through to 5 years old. Our centre is thoughtfully set up with dedicated spaces for under 2s and 2–5 year olds, so each child can thrive in an environment that suits their stage of development.

What are your opening hours?

We are open Monday to Friday, from 7:30am to 5:30pm. We close on public holidays and for a short period over Christmas and New Year.

How does drop-off and pick-up work?

All parents and caregivers receive a personal security code for our front door, so you can come and go as needed throughout the day. There’s no strict schedule - we support flexibility and understand that every family’s rhythm is different.

Do I need to provide food for my child?

No lunchboxes needed! We provide healthy, nutritious meals and snacks throughout the day, all prepared onsite by our cook. We cater for all dietary requirements — including allergies, intolerances, and cultural preferences.

Do you offer part-time enrolments?

Yes, we offer flexible enrolment options to suit your family’s needs, including full-time and part-time spaces. Please get in touch to chat about availability and what will work best for you.

What does a typical day look like?

Each day includes a balance of free play, group time, outdoor exploration, music, movement, and age-appropriate activities. Our programme follows a natural rhythm, and teachers respond to children’s interests and needs throughout the day.

Can I stay with my child during drop-off?

Absolutely. We love welcoming families each morning and taking the time to hear about your child’s needs for the day. You’re welcome to stay as long as you like - some children settle best with a bit of time, and others do better with a quick goodbye. Either way, we’re great at reading the situation and will always communicate honestly about what we think is best for your child.

Heretaunga Park has a real family feel - and that includes parents, grandparents, siblings, and extended whānau. Everyone is welcome here.

How do you help children transition to school?

We take a thoughtful, play-based approach to school readiness that builds the skills children actually need when they start primary. Our programme supports social confidence, independence, early literacy and numeracy, and the ability to sit, listen, and learn in group settings.

We help children practise getting themselves dressed, using the toilet independently, and managing their emotions - all while having fun and feeling supported. Schools often tell us they can tell when a child has come from Heretaunga Park - they arrive ready to learn, confident in themselves, and excited about the next step.

We know our role isn’t to be a school, but to help children fall in love with learning. We gently extend mat times to help tamariki get used to sitting and listening, and we offer engaging, meaningful activities that spark curiosity and encourage focus. Our approach is based on encouragement and connection, not pressure or correction.

Which primary schools do your children go on to?

Our tamariki transition to a wide range of local schools, including Silverstream School, St Brendan’s, Pinehaven, Trentham, Upper Hutt, and Oxford Crescent. We maintain positive relationships with these schools and support a smooth, confident transition when the time comes.

How do you communicate with families?

We love sharing your child’s learning journey with you. We provide regular updates, photos, and stories through our private Facebook group - with new photos posted every day so you can see what the kids have been up to. It’s a great way to stay connected and makes for fantastic conversation starters on the way home. We also keep in touch through chats at drop-off and pick-up, and always welcome open, ongoing communication with whānau.

What is your teaching philosophy?

Our philosophy is based on respectful relationships, learning through play, and recognising each child as a unique individual. We provide a warm, inclusive, and stimulating environment where every child is valued and supported to grow at their own pace. You can read more about our values on the Our Philosophy page.

How do I enrol my child?

We’d love to hear from you! You can contact us directly to arrange a visit, ask questions, or begin the enrolment process. Pop in for a tour or give us a call — we’re here to help every step of the way.