People really don’t give enough credit to how tough it is to take care of a child. Almost everyone I know who’s done it admits it’s no walk in the park. It’s physically draining, and you need a ton of patience.

Some of my friends have seriously struggled, and what helped them most was finding a good childcare centre. You get to tick things off your to-do list, and you know your little ones are in safe hands.

If you’re in Wellington and wondering where to drop the kids off, we’ve checked out a few spots. These are the ones that definitely deserve a shoutout.

1. Pipitea Childcare Centre

Pipitea Childcare Centre takes transitions very seriously. Before your child starts, you’re encouraged to spend time at the centre with them. 

They even offer an optional home visit by your kid’s key kaiako (main caretaker), so they can get to know your family and your child’s routine. 

It’s a lovely approach, and it can help kids feel more comfortable. But if you’re working full-time, this might feel a bit tricky to manage.

We find their cooperative model unique. You’re not just a client; you’re part of how the centre runs. You can even join the governance committee and have a say in decisions. 

Their values are also pretty cool. Kaitiakitanga (being responsible), mana whenua (belonging), and mana aotūra (curiosity and growth) are baked into everything they do.

Activities here are all play-based. They throw in things like football practice, outings, and a weekly “kai creator” session where kids help make a snack.

The daily rituals are also a big part of the centre. Each age group has its own routines. We think this gives their day structure and helps kids know what to expect so they can feel secure.

However, some kids might find it a bit repetitive for a while. We think it’s great for security, but hope the team is quick to notice when a child might need a change to stay engaged and growing. 

The parent-teacher co-operative element of Pipitea is really special

“We send our daughter to Pipitea Childcare Centre and have only positive words to say about it. All the teachers and staff are so loving and committed, and they go above and beyond every day for all the tamariki in their care. The parent-teacher co-operative element of Pipitea is really special because it means all the families are committed to participating in the life of the centre. Our daughter absolutely adores her time there (it’s a major struggle to get her to leave every day!) and we feel really lucky to be a part of Pipitea.”

Amelia Sharman, Google review

My grandson goes to this centre and really enjoys it

“My grandson goes to this centre and really enjoys it. Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea are provided. And extra activities are organised, such as little dribblers.”

Allison Collins-Smith, Google review

2. Karori Childcare Centre

Karori Childcare Centre is small and intimate. With only 25 children at any time, parents often say their child isn’t just one of many. Caretakers have the space and time to truly connect with each child.

We also found the mixed-age setup interesting. This can be a beautiful way for kids to learn empathy and collaboration, but it’s not always perfect for every child. Some might need more structured peer interaction, but overall, they seem to handle it well.

Parents also told us how warm and responsive the caretakers are. One parent shared how well the centre handles transitions or difficult moments, always keeping communication open. 

They also have a parent co-operative structure, so the management committee would listen to the direct input from parents.

Food is another plus. The centre provides healthy morning and afternoon teas, along with lunch.

However, families do need to supply nappies, which isn’t unusual but worth noting when you’re comparing your options. 

Fees are also fixed, so you’ll be paying even if your child is away sick, on holiday, or if the centre is closed. That might be a dealbreaker for those who need more financial flexibility.

I know I can drop my child off here and not have to worry

“My daughter attends this centre and when we had her first visit, I knew we didn’t have to look at any other centres because of the warm, whanau environment and caring nature of the teachers. Haley and her team are caring, empathetic and are very attentive to the children. I know I can drop my child off and not have to worry and if something does arise their communication skills are amazing. My daughter loves it at KCC and has grown such strong bond with the teachers and children. If you are looking in Karori, I highly recommend this place for your child!”

Alexa Howe, Google review

Would highly recommend to anyone wanting a more family feeling daycare

“My two children have attended KCC and I couldn’t be more happy with my experience. My son is now 10 and still loves visiting and seeing the same teachers who were there when he left. A warm and caring environment. Would highly recommend to anyone wanting a more family feeling daycare.”

Michelle Staunton, Google review

3. City Kids Childcare

It’s impressive that City Kids incorporates Māori values like Kaitiakitanga (caring for the land) and Ako (learning from each other) into their everyday experiences.

Some parents told us they’ve seen values come through in their child’s social development. 

The staff also seem well connected with families. They use the Storypark app to share stories, photos, and updates on your child’s day. It’s a nice way to feel part of your child’s day, even if you’re not there. 

Food is another plus. They have a full-time chef cooking fresh and healthy meals every day. Some of the meals even reflect different cultures.

We also found out that City Kids take the kids on outings around the city. It could be a walk to the park or a visit to a museum. It’s a great way for kids to connect with the world outside their bubble.

However, it’s good to know that the centre did have some past issues around how those trips were managed. The Education Review Office (ERO) pointed out missing travel permissions.

The good news is they’ve made changes and shown proof they’ve fixed it. It’s still worth considering, though.

We have had such a good experience overall

“My son started at City Kids for just 2.5 months, given the situation, we have had such a good experience overall. The teachers are amazing and contributed their best for his growth & development, they got to know him quickly and encouraged him wherever necessary. We were listening only to the good stuff from our son about city kids and felt it ourselves as well. We had a memorable time/connection with City kids even though it was for a very short while.”

Tanu Agrawal, Google review

The quality of the teaching also really stands out

“My son has been attending City Kids for just over a year, and we have been really impressed. The ratio of children to teachers is great, and the mix of all the ages together seems to work really well. The snapshots that we get through Storypark show the range of activities he gets up to, and my son really enjoys it. The quality of the teaching also really stands out and seems better and more involved than at his previous daycare in the UK.”

Jeremy Howe, Google review

4. Pride Lands Childcare HQ

If your child doesn’t fit into a neat little box, Pride Lands is a good option. They’re very inclusive and adapt the environment instead of asking the child to change.

We heard from one parent whose son has autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). They were welcomed like it were no big deal. 

There’s a lot of variety, too. Another parent said their child didn’t do the same activity twice in a whole year. It’s great, especially for kids who get bored easily or need a bit of stimulation to stay engaged. 

Some of the activities we’ve heard are cooking healthy meals, guiding younger peers, and solving group challenges.

We especially liked the fact that older children get to mentor the younger ones. For us, it gives them a sense of responsibility.

The staff also go above and beyond. You get feedback, honest updates, and support that actually feels useful. 

Plus, there’s a shuttle service, which makes life easier if you’ve got work or younger kids to juggle. And yes, they feed the kids properly too.

No place is perfect, though. They can be a bit pricey, especially when you add in extras like shuttle service or holiday programmes. 

I just wish I had known about this place a lot sooner!

“My son has a mentor who takes him out on alternate Saturdays, and he absolutely loves those outings. He has high needs, and we have the best mentor matched to him for this. Someone who is happy to take Adam out to do the things he really loves – that includes lots of bus rides. And understands his different needs. Highly recommend Pride Lands – I just wish I had known about this place a lot sooner!”

Michelle Pram, Google review

Pride Lands is an incredible place and really takes care of the children

“Pride Lands is an incredible place. For parents wondering whether Pride Lands is fit enough to take care of their children, I can confidently say it is. Moses has an incredible way with children, and most importantly, cares about each individual child. His attentiveness, respect, and focus on protecting the children are his main priorities, and the staff that train under him…”

Tom Field, Google review

5. Tiny Voices

Most urban centres struggle with outdoor space, but Tiny Voice has taken that challenge and turned it into something remarkable. 

Their rooftop playground is spacious. It has a proper bike track, sandpit, climbing equipment, and more. It feels thoughtfully constructed to promote sensory exploration, physical movement, and imagination. 

We also found their style unique. Teachers work with them like partners in figuring stuff out. It’s based on the Reggio Emilia approach that follows the child’s lead. 

The programs are also cool. Tiny Yoga teaches mindfulness, Tiny Chef lets kids cook real food, while Tiny Pets introduces them to animal care. It’s learning that sticks because it feels like play.

In terms of family involvement, we noted their open-door policy, frequent celebrations, and use of digital platforms for real-time updates. From a parent’s point of view, this level of involvement is amazing.

They do weekly outings too. The only thing is, those happen on Fridays. So if your child isn’t booked in that day, they miss out. 

Also, since it’s in a central location, the waitlist can be long. 

Lots of activities for the kids to develop new skills 

“Centrally located in the city and very convenient for working parents who work in the city. Great space for the kids, clean, bright and spacious and a great outdoor area. You will be welcomed by the lovely Sarah at the reception and a team of wonderful teachers who are very supportive, accommodating and friendly. They also have weekly excursions either to the city, the museum or to the library. Lots of activities for the kids to develop new skills and celebrations for special occasions, for example, Matariki Day, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. Parents are invited too.”

Dayana Razali, Google review

The staff are incredibly warm and nurturing

“We would highly recommend Tiny Voices to anyone looking for central city daycare in Wellington. The staff are incredibly warm and nurturing, creating a welcoming environment for the tamariki. The setup is clean, fun, and regularly updated to keep the children engaged and inspired…”

Colleen Pugh, Google review

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