Whānau Manaaki Kindergartens

He Whānau Manaaki Kindergartens is one of the largest early childhood education providers in New Zealand, with over 100 kindergartens and home-based services across the lower North Island and South Otago. As a not-for-profit organisation, they focus on providing high-quality early learning, grounded in strong values and community connection.

What they offer:

• A strong, supportive team environment with a focus on tamariki and whānau

• Opportunities to work in kindergartens, home-based care, and administration

• A commitment to diversity, inclusion, and te ao Māori

• Professional development and training – including leadership pathways

Services include:

• Offers care from 6mnths to 6yrs

• Home-based early learning (e.g. Etū Ao for Pacific families)

• Support for whānau through inclusive programmes and community connection

• Advocacy for children's rights and wellbeing

South Otago Kindergartens are Located:

• Goldfields (Lawrence)

• Clutha Valley

• Milton

• Rosebank

• Balclutha

• Poupoutunoa (Clinton)

• Kidzway (Tapanui)

All South Otago Kindergartens, with the exception of Rosebank, are full year which means they are open over the school holidays.

Career pathways available:

• Qualified Early Childhood Teachers

• Home-based Educators

• Teacher Aides / Support Staff

• Leadership roles in education and management

• Administration and operational support roles

You’ll need an early childhood teaching qualification for teacher roles, but there are also opportunities for those starting out or training – including mentoring, professional support, and culturally inclusive pathways.

Reach out if you are wanting to do some workplace experience or volunteering, WMK will try to accommodate. Keep a lookout for on-the-job training roles.