BestStart Salisbury Street

Our nursery is a calm, nurturing space where our youngest tamariki are supported to settle, grow, and develop at their own pace. We create a homely, welcoming environment where strong relationships are at the heart of everything we do, fostering a deep sense of trust, security, and belonging.

From the very beginning, each child is embraced as part of our whānau. The korowai placed upon tamariki symbolises this special welcome, acknowledging their place within our learning community and the connections we build together with kaiako and whānau.

Through gentle guidance and meaningful play, our kaiako encourage exploration and discovery, offering rich learning opportunities across a wide range of experiences that support holistic development.

As tamariki grow and become ready for their next step, we celebrate this important milestone together. Wrapped once more in the korowai, we honour their journey, recognising their growth, confidence, and the special place they will always hold within our nursery.

Our nursery is a place where strong foundations are built—where tamariki feel valued, supported, and empowered as they begin their lifelong learning journey.

Our Toddlers’ Space is a warm, welcoming environment where tamariki explore, create, and grow, bringing with them the richness of their own worlds, cultures, and experiences.

With 16 enriching areas of play — including Sensory Exploration, Dramatic Play, and Creative Experiences — toddlers are supported to follow their curiosity and develop growing independence. These spaces invite discovery, connection, and a sense of belonging, recognising that each child’s identity is shaped by the many places and people in their lives.

Guided by caring and responsive kaiako, tamariki are encouraged to make choices, build relationships, and develop confidence in themselves and others. Through shared experiences, both within the centre and beyond — such as our walks through the city and connections to local places like the Ōtākaro Avon — children begin to build meaningful connections to their environment and community.

Our Preschool Space is a vibrant, engaging environment where tamariki extend their thinking, deepen relationships, and grow as confident, capable learners.

Building on strong foundations of identity and belonging, children are encouraged to explore more complex ideas through rich, meaningful experiences. A wide range of play areas support creativity, problem-solving, collaboration, and independent thinking, empowering tamariki to take ownership of their learning.

Guided by responsive kaiako, children engage in experiences that connect them to their community and the wider world. Through shared moments — both within the centre and beyond — tamariki deepen their understanding of place, including connections to our local environment and landmarks such as the Ōtākaro Avon.

As they prepare for the transition to school, children are supported to develop resilience, confidence, and a strong sense of who they are, carrying with them the stories, relationships, and experiences that shape their learning journey.