BestStart Hei Hei

At BestStart Hei Hei we have a strong focus on respectful and meaningful relationships where tamariki (children) have the opportunity to explore their wider world around them. We are situated in Hornby and provide exceptional care and education for children from 3 months to 6 years of age. We have four wonderful classrooms and have a friendly and passionate teaching team that love working with tamariki to support their learning journeys.

Growing Together With Aroha

At BestStart HeiHei, we grow together with Aroha!

At BestStart Hei Hei, we are more than just a kindergarten; we are a vibrant community dedicated to the growth and well-being of every child. Located next to Hornby Primary School and within walking distance to the Matatiki Hornby Centre, our prime location provides convenience and accessibility for families in the area.

Our Vision: Growing Together with Aroha

"Growing together with Aroha" (Tupu tahi ana me to aroha) is the heartbeat of BestStart Hei Hei. This guiding principle permeates every aspect of our centre, from our interactions to our learning environment. Our commitment to Aroha and collaborative growth is evident in all four of our classrooms, where we strive to provide the best care possible for all tamariki.

Supportive Community and Strong Relationships

In a low socioeconomic area, we understand the importance of support and community. Our philosophy is deeply rooted in Whanaungatanga (Relationships), Manakitanga (Respect), Wananga (Communication), and Taonga Tuku Iho (Treasures). We work together with whanau and tamariki, utilizing our resources to create a home away from home where children are encouraged to become lifelong learners.

Celebrating Cultural Heritage and Traditions

BestStart Hei Hei honors the rich cultural heritage of the Hornby area, situated within the traditional network of Ngāi Tahu settlements and mahinga kai. We uphold the custom of kai hau kai (exchange of food/resources) through our secret garden, fruit trees, and community pantry, teaching children the value of giving back to others.

A Place with a Unique History

Our centre has a unique history, rooted in the community’s past. Following World War I, Hei Hei was named and subdivided for poultry farming, a nod to the area's history reflected in the Māori word for chicken. Since our establishment in November 2007, we have grown from ABC Hei Hei to BestStart Hei Hei, continually evolving to better serve our community.

Our Team

We have a very passionate and multicultural teaching team with teachers who have been at the centre for over 10 years. Our team is multicultural and we believe in celebrating all cultures, languages. We believe in working together to provide the best care for all tamariki.With regular professional development and learning from one another we are consistently upskilling to provide the best possible care and education to our BestStart HeiHei family.

What We Offer

• Fresh, healthy, nutritious snacks provided throughout the day 
• Silver Healthy Heart Award
• 20 hours free for 3-5 year olds and WINZ subsidies available* if required
• Experienced tight-knit team of passionate teachers
• Get Set for School programme
• Regular Excursions

Our Spaces

We have a lovely outdoor environment with lots of fruit trees, we have a special secret garden where we spend a lot of time growing fruit and vegetables and tend to our worm farm, teaching children about sustainability. We are also lucky to have different animals throughout our centre that the tamariki enjoy taking care of. All four of our class rooms work closely together and have a strong focus on tuakana teina relationships. We aim to provide a transitioning practice where tamariki and whanau are supported, well informed and involved in their child's transition.