If you’ve ever dropped your kid off at a childcare centre and picked them up to find they weren’t all that happy day after day, it might be time to listen to those tiny red flags. Sometimes, the place isn’t the right fit for your child, and that’s okay.

It’s time to explore other options, and we’ve got you. Our team did some digging around Tauranga. We chatted with parents, popped into a few centres, and checked out what they really offer.

Here are some of the best ones we found.

1. The Childrens Garden

We think The Childrens Garden’s Bush Kindy is one of the strongest parts of their program. Every week, the older kids head off to Johnson Reserve to spend some time in nature. It’s a nice way to build curiosity and resilience.

The centre is licensed for 25 children and only takes up to 10 infants. That’s a big win for babies who need more one-on-one care.

During our visit, we also noticed that the sleep rooms are properly set up. We liked that they have air conditioning, which is managed carefully so babies don’t get too hot or cold.

We also like their easy life-skill activities, which include kids growing their own fruit and vegetables, then turning them into soup. It’s a great sensory experience and something many children remember when they grow up. 

Families have to do at least three pre-visits before the child officially starts. That’s a gentle approach that can help kids settle in, and based on what we heard, it’s working. Parents said their kids, even shy or unsettled ones, started thriving quickly.

That said, something to be aware of: there’s a non-refundable NZ$50 for registration. If you’re undecided, this is worth noting. And we’ve also heard some hiccups with billing since a new manager took over. 

The environment is safe, nurturing, and filled with love

“As a relieving staff member at The Children’s Garden, I have seen firsthand the incredible care and attention the staff provides to the children. The environment is safe, nurturing, and filled with love. Both centres have a very homely feel, which makes all children feel comfortable and at ease. The staff provides the children with activities that are both engaging and educational, which helps build the children’s development in a fun way. I highly recommend The Children’s Garden to any parent looking for a daycare that truly cares about their child’s well-being and growth. Thumbs up to the amazing team at The Children’s Garden!”

Tayla McCormick, Google review

My two children have thrived and enjoy coming here every day

“We absolutely love The Children’s Garden. We moved to Welcome Bay a year ago, and I was very nervous about starting my children at a new centre after coming from one we loved. And the Children’s Garden was so loving and supportive. My two children (one in the under-2s and one in the preschool) have thrived and thoroughly enjoy coming to the centre every day. The teachers are so nurturing and loving. And all the learning, resources and activities follow the interests of the child. We love the Children’s Garden.”

Tash Werahiko, Google review

2. Kidiwise Preschool & Childcare

If you’re looking for a centre where kids spend a lot of time outdoors and are connected to nature, Kidiwise Preschool & Childcare is a great option. 

The place is massive. Imagine two acres of native bush, veggie gardens, and chickens just wandering around. When we saw that there was even a spa pool, we almost thought it was a perfect vacation spot, but for kids. 

Because of their space, daily activities here go way beyond the usual. Kids get to ride a pony named Peachy, go on bush walks, and do baking. The vegetable and flower garden is a spot that they often visit inside the centre as well.

Parents also love the communication. Every room has its own phone. All the day-to-day details—nappy changes, toileting, and sleep times—are logged and shared. 

Bonus points for using cloth nappies and supplying them.

However, they don’t supply milk. Kids get healthy lunches and snacks, but if your kid needs their daily milk fix, you’ll have to pack it yourself. 

Another thing we liked is how each age group has its own house, not just a room. Add to that the low staff-to-child ratio, and it makes for a setup where kids can settle in more easily and build stronger relationships with their caregivers. 

My son’s confidence and curiosity grow by the day

“My son has been going to Kidiwise since he was 4 months old, and the last 2 years with them have been nothing short of incredible. We visited while I was pregnant and earmarked our place before my son was even born. The fact that each age group has its own house with separate areas, not just a room, is amazing. The size of the outdoor space is second to none, and my bulldozer of a toddler has thrived with all the open-ended play and natural resources. His confidence and curiosity grow by the day, and I cannot be more proud of the little man he is growing into. Kidiwise have a huge part to play in this as they help shape and guide him through these formative years…”

Jes Barnes, Google review

The array of activities provided is unique and goes far beyond the basics

“…Kidiwise is far more than a daycare; it’s a thriving community where children have extensive space to run, play, and explore in a secure and stimulating environment. The array of activities provided is truly unique and goes far beyond the basics. Our boys particularly love the pony rides with Peachy the Pony, a highlight that brings them immense joy. Additionally, the bush and community walks foster a strong connection with nature and their local surroundings, while spa time offers them a moment to relax and rejuvenate—a rare find in childcare settings!…”

Alex Goldberg, Google review

3. Kaleidoscope

Kaleidoscope separates its infants, toddlers, and preschoolers into three different rooms. This setup means children can grow in spaces that match their age and stage. 

The routines and environments are tailored, so each group gets what they need without being rushed or held back.

Kids are encouraged to follow their interests, explore, and ask questions. At the same time, they’re gently guided to pick up new ideas and social skills.

A parent mentioned her child came home chatting about composting and native trees, which ties directly into the centre’s environmental awareness. It was refreshing to see real-world values being introduced so early.

Tikanga Māori is also woven into the centre’s daily rhythm. Songs, greetings, and daily routines include the language and traditions. 

They provide nutritious food and focus heavily on fruits, vegetables, and whole foods. We liked that the menu is limited in sugar and salt without sacrificing flavour or variety. 

That said, there’s one thing worth considering. The centre requires a minimum of two days per week. That might be a problem for families who only need occasional care.

We understand the centre is only concerned with consistency, but this policy makes them less accessible for some. 

What an amazing childcare centre!

“What an amazing childcare centre! We loved the time our little boy spent at Kaleidoscope – so many thoughtful and wonderful touches like the wee sign-in sheets for the children, amazing teachers, Kevin and Lynne, always so friendly and welcoming at the front door! I also always enjoyed the yummy smells coming from the kitchen, knowing the kids were going to be fed home-cooked, good-quality food. Would highly recommend any family looking for an excellent childcare facility to check out Kaleidoscope.”

Harriet Gilbert, Google review

The centre is well-equipped and well looked after

“If you are looking for a family-run Daycare, where your children are cared for at the highest standards, then look no further! I could not recommend Kaleidoscope Childcare more highly to anyone looking for a safe, loving and nurturing environment for their children. The centre is well equipped and well looked after, the Teachers are engaged and loving, and genuinely care about the children they care for. The children have a cooked lunch every day, and they managed to get my child to eat things I never thought he would! My only regret is that I didn’t have a second child so I could continue to see the amazing teachers and centre, now that my son is at school!”

Amy Kluit, Google review

4. New Shoots Tauranga Childcare Centre

New Shoots is right across from Tauranga Hospital, so it’s handy for parents who work at the hospital or downtown. It also opens earlier than most other centres, which is a big help for families with early or unpredictable work hours.

Beyond logistics, we want to highlight how the centre treats children. Their small group sizes and low teacher-to-child ratio help in establishing a good connection. 

A parent mentioned that when picking their daughter up, the kid insists on hugging each teacher before leaving. That’s a pretty strong sign of trust and care. We don’t think those kinds of attachments happen in centres where staff are overstretched. 

We also have to give credit to the food setup. Meals are cooked on-site by chefs, and a qualified nutritionist helps plan the menu. This gives parents some peace of mind. 

The outdoor area is one of the best we’ve seen in the city, too. It’s spacious and well-kept. Children move easily between inside and outside, and the staff encourage it.

The only downside is how popular the centre is. Because of its location, it’s often full. There’s usually a waitlist, especially for infants or toddlers. 

It speaks to its reputation, sure, but it’s worth planning ahead if you’re considering this centre.

The team was incredibly prompt, welcoming, and supportive

“We recently moved from Hamilton, and from the moment I reached out to New Shoots Tauranga, the team was incredibly prompt, welcoming, and supportive. They made the transition so smooth for both my daughter and me. Throughout her time there, she was genuinely cared for and nurtured — she truly enjoyed every single day. She absolutely adored her teachers, Ruby and Saul, and would walk in each morning with so much excitement. The staff are warm, friendly, and always attentive, which gave me complete peace of mind. We’re so grateful for the love, support, and care she received at New Shoots Tauranga. Although she’s now moved on to school, we’ll always look back on her time there with appreciation and fond memories.”

Mara Rocha, Google review

They provide excellent care to a very high standard

“I have been so impressed by the team at New Shoots Tauranga and all the wonderful care they provide for my daughter. They provide excellent care to a very high standard, yet maintain a gentle and playful nature. My daughter started when she was very young, and the extra time and consideration they gave to my whanau was deeply appreciated. As a new mum, the Kiwi Room team quickly became an extended part of our whanau, which made the transition to daycare so much easier. They have been consistently outstanding, and I couldn’t be more grateful to have found such an awesome daycare for my daughter. Their regular photo updates and nutritional meals are amongst the many wonderful things they provide!”

Meghan O’Sullivan, Google review

5. Kids Campus

Kids Campus’ environment is one of its biggest strengths. The outdoor area is big and filled with real grass. They’re located near the Kopurerua Valley, where some children sometimes go on guided nature walks.

We also found out that the centre has an extremely low staff turnover. The same friendly faces stick around here for years. Kids can feel safer, more settled, and build stronger bonds with their caregivers.

They also help children develop social and self-regulation skills, which are often overlooked. 

A story we heard that stuck with us was about a child who struggled at a previous centre and was even labelled “uncontrollable.” But at Kids Campus, the team met him with patience and skill. 

Other parents said their kids became more confident and independent too. It’s like the team really knows how to connect with children.

For the fee structure, it’s the same regardless of your child’s age. That’s a big deal for families with more than one child or those watching their budgets. 

While parents seem happy with the in-person updates, we think it would be better if they use digital platforms or apps for regular updates and photo sharing, like some other centres do. 

I can’t express enough just how wonderful and attentive all the staff are

“My little girl goes to this daycare, and I can’t express enough just how wonderful and attentive all the staff are to my daughter and her needs. They are really easy to communicate with when it comes to concerns I have for my girl or just in general. Best staff and the children are well loved at this centre, 5 stars from me for sure.”

Alex Smith, Google review

It’s such a cosy centre with lots of cool little activities

“Our 15-month-old daughter spends most of the week at Kids Campus. She loves it there and loves all her kaiako, and so do we! It’s such a cosy centre with lots of cool little activities and installations for the kids to engage with. They put a lot of care and thought into nurturing each of their kids!”

Ruth O’Connell, Google review

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