BestStart Great North Road

“A gathering place where children are proud to be who they really are!”

At BestStart Great North Road, our vision guides everything we do. We are a modern-day gathering place where tamariki, whānau, and kaiako come together in a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment—proud to be who they truly are.

Our Cultural Narrative and Historic Roots

Our centre is proudly located on a unique and historic site in New Lynn, once home to the iconic New Lynn Hotel—a beloved gathering place for over 100 years. People from all walks of life came together there to celebrate, connect, and support one another. Built from locally made bricks, the hotel symbolised strength, unity, and resilience.

Today, our centre continues this legacy. Just as the hotel welcomed and uplifted its community, BestStart Great North Road is a place where relationships are nurtured, diversity is celebrated, and every child is supported to thrive. Like the bricks that built the hotel, we lay strong foundations for our tamariki—brick by brick—helping them grow into confident, capable learners.

Nestled in the foothills of Te Wao Nui a Tiriwa (the Waitākere Ranges), we honour the stories and traditions of Te Kawerau ā Maki, weaving local myths and legends into our curriculum. Our values—kotahitanga (unity), manaakitanga (care and respect), and whakawhanaungatanga (building relationships)—are deeply embedded in our daily practice.

Celebrating Individuality and Diversity

Every child brings their own story, knowledge, and perspective. We celebrate this individuality and promote equity and diversity in all its beautiful forms. Tamariki are encouraged to explore, express themselves, and grow in an environment where they feel seen, heard, and proud of who they are.

Our Commitment to Wellbeing

We believe that physical, spiritual, emotional, and social wellbeing are the foundations of a balanced and fulfilling life. When our teaching team is supported and thriving, they can provide the highest quality care and education for our tamariki and whānau.

Honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi

Our commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi is central to our philosophy. We honour the principles of whakawhanaungatanga, kotahitanga, manaakitanga, ako, and wairuatanga, guiding our interactions and learning experiences every day.

Relationships at the Heart

We foster a culture of teamwork, compassion, and respect. Open and honest communication helps us build strong, authentic relationships with whānau and the wider community. These connections shape a localised curriculum that reflects the unique identities, interests, and aspirations of our tamariki.

A Joyful and Empowering Environment

Step into our centre and you’ll feel the joy—laughter, excitement, fun, and wonder fill our learning spaces. Tamariki are empowered to lead their own learning, guided by their passions and interests. This fosters rangatiratanga—self-determination and leadership.

Lifelong Learning and Kaitiakitanga

We nurture a love and respect for the natural world. Tamariki are encouraged to be kaitiaki (guardians) of their classrooms, outdoor spaces, and the wider environment. Our talented teaching team designs a curriculum that lays strong foundations for school and lifelong learning, ensuring every child is ready to thrive—proud of who they are and confident in where they’re going.