BestStart Waihopai

Located in Avenal, Invercargill, BestStart Waihopai is a small, welcoming childcare and early learning centre for children aged 2–5 years. Our smaller numbers create a close-knit environment where children are known as individuals, build strong relationships with their teachers and feel a genuine sense of belonging.

Whether your child is starting childcare or getting ready for school, our centre offers:

• A strong start to school: Our Set for School programme is woven throughout the day, helping children develop early literacy and numeracy, independence, self-help and social skills. As a lunch box centre, children also have regular opportunities to practise managing their own food and routines building practical confidence for school.
• Learning through nature: Our Wild @ Heart Bush programme and Backyard Explorers programme give children opportunities to explore the natural world, build confidence outdoors and develop an understanding of how they can care for their environment.
• Small and personal: Our smaller numbers mean children receive plenty of individual attention and have time to build strong, trusting relationships with their teachers.
• A home away from home: We create a warm, inclusive environment where children and whānau feel welcomed, supported and comfortable from the moment they arrive.

Located in Waihopai, we also offer a drop-off and pick-up van service on application to families that need it, helping make childcare easier and more convenient.

At BestStart Waihopai, we want your child to feel at home while developing the confidence, independence and skills they need for their next big step.

Come and visit us to meet our team and discover our small, nature-focused childcare centre in Invercargill!