Why families choose us
Warm relationships, culturally grounded practice, and calm, engaging learning environments that support children to feel secure and capable.
Tīrau early learning
A warm, whānau-focused place for tamariki to learn, grow, and thrive.
Kids Rock Early Learning Centre offers a nurturing, culturally responsive environment where children feel safe, connected, and inspired to explore. Our practice is guided by Te Whāriki, shaped by strong relationships with whānau, and grounded in our philosophy, Te Manu Taratahi.
7:30–5:30
Open Monday to Friday
50
Licensed places available
12 hrs
Minimum weekly enrolment
20 hrs
Free ECE for eligible tamariki aged 3+
About Kids Rock
Built on relationships, play, and a strong sense of belonging.
At Kids Rock, we are committed to building a team of passionate, qualified kaiako who support the learning and wellbeing of every child. Over 80% of our educators are fully qualified, and our natural setting creates rich opportunities for curiosity, confidence, and exploration.
We are licensed for up to 50 children, including up to 15 under twos and 35 over twos. Strong partnerships with whānau sit at the heart of our practice, and our open-door approach means families are always welcome in our centre community.
Daily communication
Families stay connected through Xplor Home, Discover, and Playground for sign-in, account updates, observations, and daily care records.
Open door policy
Whānau are encouraged to visit, stay connected, and be active participants in their child’s learning journey.
Our philosophy
Te Manu Taratahi
Te Manu Taratahi symbolises the journey of becoming life-ready and the importance of hauora within our Kids Rock whānau. Our Kids Rock whānau includes rangatira, kaiwhakahaere, kaiako, kai tunu kai, tamariki, and their whānau, all working together to support each child’s growth and wellbeing.
Te Manu Taratahi is inspired by the traditional Māori manutukuku, or kite. Its taratahi represents governance and management, the three kākaho symbolise kaiako, tamariki, and whānau, and the tangotango represents the environment that helps hold and guide the whole structure. When each part is strong, nurtured, and connected, the journey of learning can continue to rise.
The six principles
- Tikanga
Law, rights, and ways of doing both traditional and unconventional practice. - Pūrākau
Traditional storytelling that helps whānau retain and understand relationships to ancestral wisdom and mātauranga Māori. - Kotahitanga
Working together to achieve a common goal. - Whanaungatanga
Connections with whānau and tuakana-teina relationships. - Mauri
Life force, aura, and inner wellbeing. - Kaitiakitanga
Guardianship.
How this looks in practice
- Tikanga
We greet and farewell whānau warmly, create an inviting environment, include karakia at the beginning and end of the day and before kai, and support tamariki to be tidy and well presented through daily care routines. - Pūrākau
We incorporate pūrākau into planning and assessment, create links between stories and practice, and retell traditional stories while making connections to whakapapa. - Kotahitanga
We hold ongoing team meetings, encourage shared activities and experiences that build teamwork and problem-solving, and create opportunities for whānau to contribute to the learning and governance of Kids Rock. - Whanaungatanga
We connect with whānau and community, support kaiako to build genuine and reciprocal relationships, plan events that bring people together, and celebrate examples of tamariki practising whanaungatanga. - Mauri
We practise in ways that respect and protect the mauri of everyone in our Kids Rock whānau, encourage people to believe in themselves, and acknowledge the mauri of our environment, tikanga, culture, and language. - Kaitiakitanga
We create group experiences that encourage leadership, protection, and working together, notice and affirm acts of kaitiakitanga, and provide opportunities for tuakana-teina learning.
Maintaining a strong Manu Taratahi is imperative for the ascending journey of knowledge that we are endeavouring.
Our rooms
Two welcoming spaces designed for each stage of early learning.
Kōwhai Room — Under Twos
The Kōwhai Room is a calm, nurturing space for our youngest tamariki. Natural light, soft furnishings, sensory resources, and low shelving support safe exploration and growing independence.
A covered deck flows from the indoor space to the outdoor play area, and a dedicated sleep room with cots and stretchers helps children maintain familiar rest routines. Tamariki usually begin transitioning to the Pōhutukawa Room about four weeks before their second birthday.
Pōhutukawa Room — Over Twos
The Pōhutukawa Room is vibrant, spacious, and designed to encourage independence, creativity, and social growth. Open-ended materials support imaginative play, collaborative learning, and child-led discovery.
Large sliding doors open onto a covered deck and tree-shaded playground, while an indoor calm space with stretchers offers time for rest and reset. Comfort items are welcomed to support each child’s sense of belonging.
Our team
Experienced kaiako and support staff who know the value of whānau.
Our teaching team brings together experience, care, and a shared commitment to creating safe, inspiring learning environments for tamariki. On the website we use first names only, while keeping roles clear for families.
Teacher
Grace — Teacher
Hi, I'm Grace.
I'm from the Philippines, and a mum of two kids. I've been rocking out with the little ones at Kids Rock for 11 years. I'm here to stay — keeping kids out of trouble while they're busy learning and exploring the big world.
Qualified Teacher
Whitney — Teacher
Kia ora, my name is Whitney Dunner. I was born and raised in Putāruru, where I still live with my partner, Robbie, and our two children.
I have worked in early childhood education for six years and enjoy working alongside whānau to support their child’s aspirations and learning journey.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends and making the most of the outdoors.
Teacher
Jaydn — Teacher
Kia ora, my name is Jaydn Barron, and I have been teaching at Kids Rock for the past four years. I am passionate about building positive relationships with our tamariki and supporting them as they learn, grow, and develop confidence in themselves.
One of my favourite things about teaching is that it allows me to stay connected with my inner child. I love the positive attitudes, humour, and unique perspectives that tamariki bring each day, and I enjoy creating meaningful learning experiences alongside them.
Outside of the centre, I have a passion for basketball and enjoy living a healthy, active lifestyle. I believe in encouraging children to be confident and to always strive to be their best.
Qualified Teacher
Megan — Qualified Teacher
Hi, I’m Megan.
I’m a mum of two who loves gardening, being outdoors, and spending time in nature. I enjoy supporting children to learn through play, curiosity, and meaningful connections.
Centre Cook
Jacqueline — Centre Cook
Hi, I’m Jacqueline.
Originally from West Yorkshire, England, I live in Putāruru with my partner Doug and daughter Shannon.
I have happily worked in the kitchen here at Kids Rock for the last 14 years.
Registered Teacher
Shannon — Registered Teacher
Kia ora, I’m Shannon.
I am a passionate early childhood educator who enjoys creating engaging learning experiences that support children’s curiosity, creativity, and confidence. I value building strong relationships with tamariki and whānau and believe in fostering a welcoming environment where every tamaiti and whānau feels a sense of belonging.
Outside of work, I enjoy reading, knitting, and spending time with my cat Gadget.
Kaiwhakahaere · Centre Manager
Stormy — Kaiwhakahaere / Centre Manager
Kia ora, ko Stormy Whiorau-Ashby. Ko Pouerua te maunga. Ko Waitangi te awa. Ko Ngāpuhi te iwi. Ko Ngāti Rāhiri rāua ko Ngāti Kawa ōku hapū. Ko Te Tii o Waitangi rāua ko Ōrāmahoe ōku marae.
Stormy has worked in early childhood education since 1996 and holds a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education from the University of Waikato. She is deeply committed to Māori pedagogy and to authentically weaving te ao Māori, te reo Māori, and tikanga Māori throughout children’s learning experiences.
As a mother of four and proud grandmother of fourteen, whānau is at the heart of Stormy’s leadership. She believes children learn best through play, exploration, and positive relationships, and she is passionate about helping every child feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.
“Mā te huruhuru ka rere te manu – Adorn the bird with feathers so it may fly.”
Assistant Manager · Registered Teacher
Riki — Assistant Manager
Kia ora, I’m Riki Tearetoa, a proud husband and father of four who is passionate about helping children and people grow, learn, and thrive. With over 15 years of teaching experience, I love creating positive relationships and supporting others to build confidence, develop new skills, and discover their strengths.
I believe every child is capable of amazing things when they feel valued, supported, and encouraged. One of the most rewarding parts of my role is being part of each child’s learning journey and celebrating their achievements alongside their whānau.
Outside of the centre, you’ll often find me on the basketball court. I enjoy both playing and coaching basketball, working with players of all ages from Year 5 through to adults. Whether in education or sport, my passion is helping people become the best version of themselves.
Teacher
Colleen — Teacher
Kia ora, I’m Colleen.
I enjoy spending quality time with my whānau, going for long walks, listening to music, and having a good karaoke session. I am a proud mum to three beautiful children who inspire me every day.
Many years ago I knew I wanted to be an educator. I have always been passionate about supporting children’s growth, learning, and wellbeing and building strong relationships with their whānau. I feel privileged to be a part of your babies’ early learning experiences.
Early Learning Centre
Enrolment
Clear enrolment steps for families.
- 1. Enquire or enrol onlineUse our online enquiry or enrolment form to get started and tell us about your child and preferred schedule.
- 2. Meet the teamWe encourage at least two 30-minute visits in the two weeks before your child starts to build relationships and help them settle.
- 3. Sign the enrolment formAfter you submit your online form, our team will print it and have it ready for signing before your child’s first day.
- 4. Bring required documentsPlease provide your child’s birth certificate or passport, along with immunisation records so we can meet Ministry of Education requirements.
- Minimum attendance
Children must be enrolled for at least 12 hours each week, such as 3 days × 4 hours or 2 days × 6 hours. - Pick-up and drop-off
All authorised adults must be listed on the enrolment form and will receive a unique sign-in code for the Discover tablet. - Medication
Ongoing medication requires a health plan, and short-term medication requires daily written authority. - Withdrawal notice
Two weeks’ notice is required if you choose to withdraw your child from Kids Rock.
Fees and funding
Transparent rates, funding support, and payment information.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Enrolment fee | $30.00 one-time, non-refundable fee. |
| Hourly rates | Under 2 years: $7.00 per hour, increasing to $7.80 from 22/06/26. Over 2 years: $6.50 per hour, increasing to $7.00 from 22/06/26. |
| 20 Hours ECE | Children aged 3+ are eligible for up to 20 free ECE hours per week. Any hours above the allocation are charged at standard rates. |
| Payment terms | Invoices are emailed weekly and are due within 3 days. Internet banking is preferred and EFTPOS is available. No cash payments. |
| Discount | A 10% discount applies to the second child in full-time families and cannot be combined with other promotions. |
| Absences and holidays | Sick days and statutory holidays are charged at the full rate. Up to 10 free holiday days are available each year with 4 weeks’ written notice, allocated pro rata. |
| Extra charges | Booked hours used without 48 hours’ notice are charged at $13.00 per hour. A $50 late fee applies after a 2-minute grace period outside licensed hours, plus $2 per minute thereafter. |
| Family support | We support WINZ Childcare Subsidy applications and eligible families may also be able to claim FamilyBoost through Inland Revenue. |
Parent information
Helpful details for everyday life at Kids Rock.
- Daily routine
Breakfast from 7:30–8:15am, morning tea at 9:45am, lunch from 11:30am, afternoon tea at 1:45pm, and a late snack at 4:00pm. - Food options
Children receiving free or subsidised hours may bring a lunchbox or choose centre-provided food for $5.00 per day. - Information pocket
Please check your child’s foyer pocket regularly for invoices, statements, attestation forms, and notices from kaiako. - Special events
We celebrate birthdays, national holidays, and local events. Families are welcome to bring a birthday cake if they wish.
How do timetable changes work?
Please give at least 7 days’ notice for changes to your child’s regular booking. Requests can be made through Xplor Home or by email.
What happens with frequent absences?
Frequent absence reports are reviewed monthly. Unexplained absences or irregular attendance may affect booked hours or funding arrangements.
How do the Xplor apps help families?
Xplor Home helps families manage bookings and view updates, Discover handles sign-in and sign-out, and Playground is used by kaiako to record learning and daily care.
What consent forms are included at enrolment?
Enrolment includes consent options for photos and media, local excursions within Tīrau, emergency medical care, and routine health checks such as vision and hearing screening.
Visit our centre
We welcome whānau to come in, meet our team, and see our spaces in person.
Whether you are just starting to explore early learning or you are ready to enrol, we would love to hear from you and help your child settle into Kids Rock.
Contact
Get in touch
We are open Monday to Friday from 7:30am to 5:30pm and are closed on statutory holidays. Any additional closures will be shared with families in advance.
- Address
6 Patetere Street, Tīrau - Phone
07 883 1969 - Email
info@kidsrockelc.co.nz
Online links
Quick actions for families
- Enquiry form
Open the enquiry form - Enrolment form
Open the enrolment form - Payments
Hammond Investments Ltd · 01-0204-0014404-00 · Reference: your child’s surname