Nau mai haere mai - Welcome
Te Mata Kindergarten : Taking Giant steps in Learning.
Our Kindergarten has a special place in the community and is located in the foothills of the Sleeping Giant, Te Mata o Rongokako.
At Te Mata Kindergarten tamariki develop positive learning habits, life skills, independence and confidence through a fun, safe, exciting and inclusive programme and learning environment. Tamariki and parents develop lifelong friendships and a strong sense of community and belonging.
Each child has their own individual learning plan which is developed and evaluated in partnership with whānau. Teachers intentionally use the child’s interests and strengths to extend their learning and achieve their goals.
Tamariki successfully transition to any of the local Havelock North schools and Te Mata Kindergarten is highly regarded in the educational community.
Te Mata has a large, attractive natural outdoor environment. The playground encourages tamariki to develop their large motor skills which supports their early literacy and numeracy development.
Tamariki’s learning is supported by the unique Te Mata Kindergarten contract which encourages successful social interactions. Kindness, respect, manaakitanga, and whanaungatanga are highly valued. Sharing and caring for each other and the natural world creates a safe, happy environment for tamariki to play and grow.
We are an established team of experienced teachers with extensive knowledge of teaching and learning. Our teachers are passionate, creative and professional, and provide a rich learning and fun environment for tamariki.
Vision and Philosophy
Vision
Taking Giant Steps in Learning.
Philosophy
ERO Quality Evaluation Report
“Children’s
learning is fostered in an inclusive learning environment. Intentional
strategies support children’s developing social and emotional competencies.
Teachers encourage children to express themselves and lead their own learning.
Their sense of belonging is prioritised.”
Hours and Fees
20 January - 19 December 2025
Monday – Friday:
8.15 am – 2.15 pm
Dates Closed
2025 Statutory Holidays
Waitangi Day – Thursday 6 February
Good Friday – Friday 18 April
Easter Monday – Monday 21 April
Anzac Day – Friday 25 April
King’s Birthday – Monday 2 June
Matariki – Friday 20 June
Hawkes’ Bay Anniversary - Friday 24 October
Labour Day – Monday 27 October
Kaiako Professional Development
We will be closed on the following dates to support kaiako professional development, ensuring continuous growth and improvement:
Thursday 17th April (1 day)
Monday 7th July - Friday 11th July (1 week)
Friday 3rd October (1 day)
Fees
ZERO FEES
Kaiako
Fiona Francois
Kaiako Matua
Head Teacher
Diploma of Teaching
Bachelor of Education
Lara Caddis
Kaiako
Teacher
Bachelor of Teaching ECE
Judith Lambert
Kaiako
Teacher
Bachelor of Teaching
Diploma of Teaching
Eleni Zachary
Kaiako
Teacher
Diploma of Teaching ECE
Carolyn Higgins
Kaiako
Teacher
Bachelor of Education
Diploma of Teaching