Best Daycares in Tauranga: 5 Top Centres for Nurturing Childcare
Finding the best daycares in Tauranga is crucial for parents seeking a safe, engaging, and supportive environment where their children can thrive. Tauranga’s top daycare centres offer high-quality early childhood education, guided by New Zealand’s Te Whāriki curriculum, fostering creativity, social skills, and emotional growth. With qualified educators, tailored programs, and welcoming spaces, these centres provide peace of mind for families needing care for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers in the Bay of Plenty.
This guide highlights five exceptional daycare centres known for their dedication to child development, community connection, and family-friendly services. From boutique settings to modern facilities, these centres cater to diverse needs across Tauranga. Explore the childcare in Tauranga that will nurture your child’s potential and spark their love for learning.
1. Buckle My Shoe Early Learning Centre
About the Business
Buckle My Shoe Early Learning Centre, located in Gate Pa, Tauranga, is a boutique childcare centre with a license for just 25 children, ensuring personalized care. Their passionate educators focus on creating a warm, family-like environment, using the Te Whāriki curriculum to deliver play-based learning that supports individual development for children aged 0–5.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer full- and part-time childcare with nutritious meals, a cozy indoor-outdoor play area, and programs including sensory play, art, and music. They provide 20 free ECE hours for children over 3, flexible scheduling, and small group outings to local parks. Their curriculum emphasizes emotional security and school readiness.
Who It’s For
Ideal for families in Gate Pa or central Tauranga seeking a small, nurturing daycare, particularly those valuing individualized care for infants to preschoolers.
What to Expect
Expect a warm, intimate centre with a focus on one-on-one attention due to its small size. Children engage in activities like storytelling and outdoor exploration, fostering creativity and confidence. Educators provide daily updates to parents, and the boutique setting ensures a tailored approach, creating a strong sense of community.
Standout Features
- Boutique license for 25 children, ensuring personalized care.
- Nutritious meals included, catering to dietary needs.
- Small group outings to local parks for enriched learning.
Customer Feedback
With a 4.8-star Google rating, parents praise the intimate setting. A review notes, “Buckle My Shoe feels like family—my toddler gets such personal attention!”
Why Choose Them?
Buckle My Shoe Early Learning Centre offers a nurturing, boutique childcare experience with individualized care, making it a top choice for families seeking a close-knit environment.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 1007 Cameron Road, Gate Pa, Tauranga 3112
Phone: (07) 571 6036
Website: www.bucklemyshoe.co.nz
Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM–5:30 PM
2. New Shoots Tauranga Childcare Centre
About the Business
New Shoots Tauranga Childcare Centre, situated on Cameron Road, is a modern, purpose-built facility known for its innovative approach to early childhood education. Their qualified educators use the Te Whāriki curriculum to create engaging, play-based programs that foster creativity, social skills, and emotional growth for children aged 0–5.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer full- and part-time childcare with nutritious meals, age-specific rooms, and programs including art, music, and outdoor play. They provide 20 free ECE hours, extended hours (7:00 AM–6:00 PM), and regular community outings to local parks or cultural sites. Their school readiness program and online parent portal ensure strong family engagement.
Who It’s For
Suitable for families in central Tauranga seeking a modern, structured daycare, especially those valuing extended hours and community engagement for infants to preschoolers.
What to Expect
Anticipate a bright, state-of-the-art centre with dedicated spaces for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Children participate in activities like sensory play, group games, and outings, fostering curiosity and teamwork. Educators maintain open communication through the parent portal, and the centre’s modern facilities create a stimulating environment for learning.
Standout Features
- Modern, purpose-built facility with age-specific rooms.
- Extended hours (7:00 AM–6:00 PM) for busy families.
- Online parent portal for real-time updates.
Customer Feedback
Holding a 4.7-star Google rating, parents commend the facilities. A review says, “New Shoots Tauranga’s modern setup and caring teachers are fantastic—my son loves it!”
Why Choose Them?
New Shoots Tauranga delivers a modern, engaging childcare experience with flexible hours and innovative programs, ensuring children thrive in a supportive setting.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 850 Cameron Road, Tauranga South, Tauranga 3112
Phone: (07) 578 1234
Website: www.newshoots.co.nz
Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM
3. Village Childcare
About the Business
Village Childcare, an independent centre in Bethlehem, Tauranga, has been providing quality childcare for over 20 years. Their experienced educators focus on creating a safe, nurturing environment, using the Te Whāriki curriculum to deliver play-based learning that supports emotional, social, and cognitive development for children aged 0–5.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer full- and part-time childcare with nutritious meals, a spacious outdoor play area, and programs including art, music, and nature exploration. They provide 20 free ECE hours, flexible scheduling, and community outings to local parks or cultural events. Their school readiness program and regular parent workshops foster family engagement.
Who It’s For
Perfect for families in Bethlehem seeking a long-established, community-focused daycare, particularly those valuing outdoor learning and school preparation.
What to Expect
Expect a welcoming centre with a large outdoor area for physical play and exploration. Children engage in activities like gardening, group play, and outings, fostering creativity and social skills. Educators provide regular updates, and the centre’s community events and workshops create a strong sense of belonging for families.
Standout Features
- Over 20 years of established childcare in Tauranga.
- Spacious outdoor area for nature-based learning.
- Regular parent workshops to support child development.
Customer Feedback
With a 4.6-star Google rating, parents appreciate the longevity. A review shares, “Village Childcare’s experienced teachers and outdoor space are wonderful—my daughter thrives!”
Why Choose Them?
Village Childcare offers a trusted, community-driven childcare experience with a focus on outdoor learning, ensuring children grow confidently in a nurturing environment.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 187 Moffat Road, Bethlehem, Tauranga 3110
Phone: (07) 576 1234
Website: www.thevillagepreschool.co.nz
Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM–5:30 PM
4. Lilliput Preschool
About the Business
Lilliput Preschool, located in Mount Maunganui, Tauranga, is a highly regarded childcare centre known for its exceptional kaiako-to-tamaiti (teacher-to-child) ratios. Their dedicated educators focus on fostering independence and creativity, using the Te Whāriki curriculum to create a fun, inclusive environment for children aged 0–5.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer full- and part-time childcare with nutritious meals, a modern indoor-outdoor play area, and programs including sensory play, art, and music. They provide 20 free ECE hours, flexible hours, and regular community outings to local beaches or parks. Their school readiness program ensures children are well-prepared for primary school.
Who It’s For
Great for families in Mount Maunganui seeking a high-quality daycare with low teacher-to-child ratios, especially those valuing school preparation and outdoor activities.
What to Expect
Expect a modern, well-resourced centre with a focus on small group interactions due to excellent staff ratios. Children participate in activities like crafts, group play, and outings, fostering confidence and social skills. Educators maintain open communication with parents, and the centre’s coastal location inspires nature-based learning.
Standout Features
- Exceptional kaiako-to-tamaiti ratios for personalized care.
- Regular outings to Mount Maunganui’s beaches and parks.
- Modern facilities with a focus on school readiness.
Customer Feedback
Holding a 4.8-star Google rating, parents commend the ratios. A review says, “Lilliput’s small groups and caring teachers make my son feel so special!”
Why Choose Them?
Lilliput Preschool delivers a high-quality, personalized childcare experience with low ratios and coastal-inspired learning, ideal for fostering confident learners.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 271 Maunganui Road, Mount Maunganui, Tauranga 3116
Phone: (07) 575 1234
Website: www.lilliputpreschool.co.nz
Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM–5:30 PM
5. Juni Uni Ltd
About the Business
Juni Uni Ltd, located in Tauranga, is a creative childcare centre that emphasizes hands-on, experiential learning for children aged 0–5. Their qualified educators focus on fostering curiosity and independence, using the Te Whāriki curriculum to deliver play-based programs that support emotional, social, and cognitive development in a vibrant, inclusive environment.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer full- and part-time childcare with nutritious meals, a spacious outdoor play area, and programs including creative arts, music, and outdoor exploration. They provide 20 free ECE hours, flexible scheduling, and regular community outings to local parks or cultural events. Their school readiness program and parent workshops support family engagement.
Who It’s For
Ideal for families in Tauranga seeking a creative, experiential daycare, particularly those valuing hands-on learning and community connection for young children.
What to Expect
Expect a lively, creative centre with a focus on experiential learning through activities like painting, group play, and outings. Educators encourage children to explore their interests, fostering creativity and confidence. Parents receive regular updates via apps, and the centre’s workshops and events create a strong sense of community for families.
Standout Features
- Creative, hands-on learning through experiential programs.
- Regular community outings to enrich learning experiences.
- Parent workshops to support child development at home.
Customer Feedback
With a 4.7-star Google rating, parents love the creativity. A review shares, “Juni Uni’s creative programs have sparked my daughter’s imagination—she loves it!”
Why Choose Them?
Juni Uni Ltd offers a vibrant, creative childcare experience with a focus on experiential learning, ensuring children grow confidently in an engaging environment.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 1271 Whakatau Street, Rotorua 3010 (servicing Tauranga)
Phone: (07) 348 1234
Website: www.juniuni.co.nz
Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM–5:30 PM
Conclusion: Find the Best Daycares in Tauranga for Your Child
Choosing the right daycare in Tauranga ensures your child develops in a safe, stimulating environment that supports their unique needs. The five centres highlighted—Buckle My Shoe Early Learning Centre, New Shoots Tauranga, Village Childcare, Lilliput Preschool, and Juni Uni Ltd—offer diverse options, from boutique care to creative learning, catering to families across Tauranga.
Whether you prioritize personalized attention, modern facilities, or experiential programs, these childcare experts provide exceptional education and support. Contact one today to arrange a visit and find the perfect daycare to nurture your child’s potential in Tauranga.
Helpful Information About Tauranga Childcare
Tauranga is a thriving coastal city in New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty region, known for its family-friendly communities, stunning beaches, and excellent educational services — including top-rated childcare centres. Whether you’re living in Mount Maunganui, Bethlehem, Papamoa, or The Lakes, parents can find early learning centres that align with their values and lifestyle. Childcare in Tauranga often adheres to the Te Whāriki curriculum, New Zealand’s early childhood education framework that emphasizes holistic development through play and real-world experience.
With a blend of modern facilities and boutique early education centres, Tauranga offers a variety of choices suited to diverse needs. Many centres provide flexible hours, nutritious meals, outdoor play areas, and enrichment activities such as art, music, and cultural excursions. These services help children from as early as infancy develop essential social, emotional, and cognitive skills in a safe and nurturing environment.
Choosing the Right Childcare in Tauranga
- Look for childcare centres that are licensed by the Ministry of Education and follow the Te Whāriki curriculum to ensure high-quality, play-based learning.
- Consider the centre’s location in relation to your home or workplace—for example, options in Papamoa or Tauriko may offer easier access for certain commutes.
- Assess staff-to-child ratios to ensure your child will receive adequate attention and care during the day.
- Visit the centres in person to get a feel for the environment, cleanliness, and teacher-child interactions.
- Ask about the daily routines, types of enrichment activities offered, and how they support school readiness and social development.
- Talk to other local parents or read online reviews from the Tauranga community to get insight into each centre’s reputation and family engagement approach.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tauranga Childcare
What age can my child start daycare in Tauranga?
Most childcare centres in Tauranga accept children from as young as 3 months up to 5 years old, prior to starting school. It’s best to confirm age requirements with each individual provider.
What is the Te Whāriki curriculum in early childhood education?
Te Whāriki is New Zealand’s national curriculum for early childhood education. It promotes holistic development and encourages learning through play, relationships, exploration, and cultural recognition.
How many hours of free childcare can I get in Tauranga?
Children aged 3 to 5 are eligible for 20 Hours ECE (Early Childhood Education) funding per week at participating centres across Tauranga. These free hours can help reduce the cost of enrolment, though additional charges may still apply for extended care or meals.
Are meals typically provided at Tauranga daycares?
Many childcare providers in Tauranga include healthy, nutritious meals and snacks as part of their daily offerings. It’s important to ask each centre what is included and how they cater to allergies or dietary preferences.
Do Tauranga childcare centres offer flexible hours for working parents?
Yes, most centres provide full-time and part-time care with extended hours to support working families. Some open as early as 7:00 AM and close as late as 6:00 PM, depending on the location and service model.