BestStart Naenae

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Nga atua
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BestStart is one of NZ's leading early childcare providers. BestStart Naenae in Lower Hutt provides affordable, high quality education and award winning childcare for babies, toddlers and preschoolers.

At BestStart Naenae, we come together to make a difference!

Our centre is a welcoming and inclusive space that supports children’s growth and development at every age and stage. We offer a calm environment with consistent routines to help children feel secure and thrive. Our strong local curriculum is closely tied to local pūrakau (stories) and guided by the Māori health model, Te Whare Tapa Whā, ensuring a holistic approach to learning and well-being.

We value strong connections with our community, offering services like Plunket and Bee Healthy on-site regularly, and our transition-to-school programmes build strong partnerships with local schools, including Rata Street School. We embrace diversity and inclusion, creating a warm whānau atmosphere where whānau are always welcome to engage and be part of our centre’s journey.

Our Team

Our team of passionate teachers, many from the Naenae community, are as diverse as the children we are privileged to spend our days with. We uphold cultural practices and inspire children to be proud of their heritage. We celebrate various language weeks schools, and invite whanau to share their knowledge and experiences.Our centre is a vibrant and diverse community that takes pride in celebrating the many different cultures that make us unique. Our warm and caring team reflects this diversity, bringing together a rich blend of cultural perspectives and experiences. We believe that by embracing and honoring our differences, we create a more inclusive and enriching environment for all. This approach not only fosters respect and understanding but also helps children appreciate the beauty of diversity from an early age.

What We Offer

  • 20 hours free for 3-5 year olds and WINZ subsidies available* if required
  • Get Set for School Programme
  • Fresh, healthy, nutritious meals and snacks provided throughout the day 

Our Spaces

Our centre provides a nurturing and stimulating environment designed to support children's growth and development. With spacious, well-organized classrooms filled with age-appropriate resources, children are encouraged to explore and engage in meaningful play. The outdoor areas feature safe, inviting spaces where children can connect with nature and participate in various physical activities. Our environment is thoughtfully designed to promote curiosity, creativity, and collaboration, fostering a sense of belonging and community. We prioritize safety and comfort, ensuring that every child feels secure and supported as they embark on their learning journey.

Kākano Room

Under 2's

Tipu Tahi Room

2 - 3 years old

Tipu Rua

3 - 4 year olds

Rākau

4 years old - to school

Video Gallery

Show time
Giant bubbles!
Friendship, fun and laughter
Handstand helping hand
Bubble babies
Quality Service Award 2023
BestStart Naenae Musical Chairs

kind words from our parents

Parent

When Niyanth started kindy a couple of months back, I was very much worried about him but with in a few days he started settling and started loving being there..don’t know from where to start thanking you all… thank you all so much for your patience with Niyan, for every tear you wiped, for holding my little boys hands so gently,for all the stories you have told, for your tender heart, for peaceful naps, morning cuddles, for being kind and fair, for teaching him many thoughtful words and for all the sweet things that you did to shape my little one these last two months… thank you for being there in place of me.. I’m so grateful..and I’ll always be…couldn’t thank enough …. surly he will miss all you love and cuddles.

Parent

Thank you very much for giving Rex a great start in New Zealand. We appreciate all your effort.

Parent

We would like to thank all the staff for making Matthias' first year in daycare a very enjoyable one. We have seen great progress in his learning and social skills since he's been with BestStart and that's all thanks to all the staff.

Naenae Neighbourhood Police

BestStart Naenae engages in many of the local events in Naenae. The most recent “Naenae Day” celebration, had BestStart staff down in Hillary Court in Naenae showing off their centre and telling everyone about the great place that it is. There was great interaction between the community and the BestStart staff and Police were pleased that they had come to celebrate the people of Naenae. It is encouraging to see BestStart staff are engaged with the Naenae Community and that they care about what happens to their tamariki. They encourage everyone to be involved in the tamariki lives especially the positive role models, of which I believe Police are one of.

What we're proud of

Click here to read our ERO report Click here to read our ERO report e-Portfolios e-Portfolios Most Trusted Childcare Most Trusted Childcare We have a Bronze Healthy Heart Award We have a Bronze Healthy Heart Award Quality Service Award Quality Service Award Set for School Set for School BestStart Educare Governing Organisation Report BestStart Educare Governing Organisation Report

LATEST STORIES FROM OUR BLOG

Celebrating Matariki at BestStart Naenae

What a wonderful day of coming together and learning

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Dinosaur Forests

The children created an intricate ngahere (forest) for their Dinosaurs, carving rivers and caves

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